The sun emits three kinds of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are often most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which can produce sunburn unless you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are different. The sun still produces them, but the earth’s ozone layer soaks up all UVC rays, so you aren’t exposed to them in nature.
UVC light grants useful germicidal benefits. In fact, it has been used as a sterilization method for decades. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps kill microorganisms such as bacteria, algae and fungi in just 10 seconds of contact. When placed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights could seriously enhance your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are installed in your ductwork, where they work continuously. Air flows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner runs, and intense UVC rays inactivate and destroy most viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms won’t reproduce and die soon after UVC exposure.
5 Benefits of Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other kinds of air cleaning possible, why should you consider placing a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these pluses:
1. Sterilized Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is routinely wet, especially during warmer months. By always shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria cannot grow.
2. Fresher Indoor Air
Media air filters can trap minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights lower the concentration of microorganisms in the air without reducing airflow.
3. Better Efficiency
By sustaining steady airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system operate more effectively. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs each month.
4. Extended HVAC Life Expectancy
Clean equipment functions more smoothly and needs repairs less often. It could even run years longer.
5. Lower Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces generate condensate, which flows away through a nearby pipe. As the years go by, algae can fill up the drain line. By preventing organic growth in the first place, UVC lights minimize the risk of water damage from an overflowing condensate drain pan.
Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?
When you review all the perks they offer your HVAC system, UV lights could clearly prove helpful in any house. You are more apt to appreciate having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory ailment
- Weakened immune system
If you’re looking into installing germicidal UV lights, talk with Coastal Service Experts. We can suggest the best system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s wise to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a professional since UVC exposure may result in skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights work, or to arrange a free home comfort consultation, call us at 912-208-2399 now!