The sun emits three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are likely most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which may result in sunburn unless you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are different. The sun still emits them, but the earth’s ozone layer takes care of all UVC rays, so you don’t come across them in nature.
UVC light comes with exceptional germicidal benefits. In fact, it has been used as a purification method for decades. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps eradicate microorganisms including bacteria, algae and fungi within 10 seconds of contact. When used in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights may seriously improve your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are used in your ductwork, where they operate continuously. Air blows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner heats or cools, and powerful UVC rays inactivate and destroy nearly all viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms cannot reproduce and die shortly after UVC exposure.
5 Benefits of Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other methods of air cleaning on the market, why should you think about putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Review these benefits:
1. Cleaner Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is routinely damp, namely in the summer. By always shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will struggle to take hold.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can trap the smaller bacteria and viruses. UV lights decrease the concentration of microorganisms in the air without restricting airflow.
3. Better Efficiency
By sustaining normal airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system perform more efficiently. This, in turn, decreases your energy costs from month to month.
4. Extended HVAC Lifetime
Clean equipment works more evenly and needs repairs less often. It may even run years longer.
5. Less Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which travels away from a nearby pipe. Over time, algae can clog the drain line. By stopping organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights minimize the likelihood of water damage from an overflowing condensate drain pan.
Who Should Install Germicidal UV Lights?
When you consider all the pluses they grant your HVAC system, UV lights could easily prove worthwhile in any residence. You are more apt to benefit from having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory ailment
- Weaker immune system
If you’re looking into installing germicidal UV lights, speak with Midway Services. We can recommend the perfect system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s important to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a professional because UVC exposure might lead to skin or eye injuries. To discover about how UV lights perform, or to request a free home comfort consultation, call us at 727-219-2471 today!