The sun produces three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are likely most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which might cause sunburn unless you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are distinct. The sun still releases them, but the earth’s ozone layer takes care of all UVC rays, so you don’t experience them in nature.
UVC light offers highly beneficial germicidal benefits. In reality, it has been used as a purification method for a long time. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps kill microorganisms including bacteria, algae and fungi in just 10 seconds of contact. When installed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights may seriously improve your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are placed inside your ductwork, where they function constantly. Air flows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner runs, and strong UVC rays inactivate and neutralize the majority of viruses, bacteria or mold floating in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die shortly after UVC exposure.
5 Pluses of Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other kinds of air cleaning in use, why should you think about putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these advantages:
1. Cleaner Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is often wet, especially in the summer. By always shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will struggle to grow.
2. Fresher Indoor Air
Media air filters can catch minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights reduce the number of microorganisms in the air without reducing airflow.
3. Enhanced Efficiency
By maintaining enough airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system perform more effectively. This, in turn, reduces your energy costs from month to month.
4. Extended HVAC Life Span
Clean equipment works more smoothly and breaks down less frequently. It can even last years longer.
5. Reduced Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces generate condensate, which travels away through a nearby pipe. Over time, algae can obstruct the drain line. By halting organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights reduce 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 helpful in any home. You are most likely to appreciate adding HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory ailment
- Weaker immune system
If you’re thinking about getting germicidal UV lights, speak with A-PLUS Service Experts. We can recommend the best system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s important to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a trained technician since UVC exposure may result in skin or eye injuries. To learn more about how UV lights can help, or to schedule a free home comfort consultation, call us at 301-747-3140 right away!