How Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System Wipes Out Viruses

The sun emits three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are usually most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which can cause sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are separate. The sun still releases them, but the earth’s ozone layer takes care of all UVC rays, so you don’t come across them in nature. 

UVC light offers outstanding germicidal benefits. In fact, it has been used as a purification method for many years. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps kill microorganisms including bacteria, algae and fungi in under 10 seconds of contact. When placed 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 run around the clock. Air flows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner runs, and strong UVC rays inactivate and destroy nearly all viruses, bacteria or mold floating in the air. Inactivated microorganisms cannot reproduce and die briefly after UVC exposure. 

5 Pluses of Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System 

With other types of air cleaning possible, why should you think about installing a UV light in your HVAC system? Review these benefits: 

1. Cleaner Coils 

The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is frequently moist, namely when it’s hot. By continuously shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will not flourish. 

2. Healthier Indoor Air 

Media air filters can catch minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights reduce the amount of microorganisms in the air without affecting airflow. 

3. Enhanced Efficiency 

By sustaining normal airflow and keeping the equipment clean, UV lights help your HVAC system run more efficiently. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs from month to month. 

4. Extended HVAC Life Expectancy 

Clean equipment operates more evenly and needs repairs less often. It can even run years longer. 

5. Lower Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs 

Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which flows away into a nearby pipe. As the years go by, algae can block the drain line. By halting organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights lower the chance of water damage from a blocked condensate drain pan. 

Who Should Use Germicidal UV Lights? 

When you explore all the advantages they offer your HVAC system, UV lights could clearly prove valuable in any residence. You are more apt to recognize adding HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has: 

• Allergies 

• Asthma 
• Any respiratory ailment 
• Compromised immune system 

If you’re thinking about getting germicidal UV lights, chat with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We can recommend the ideal system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s best to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a professional because UVC exposure could lead to skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights work, or to schedule a free home comfort consultation, reach us at 954-736-4314 now!