The sun releases three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are often most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which might 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 absorbs all UVC rays, so you don’t experience them in nature.
UVC light comes with outstanding germicidal benefits. In reality, it has been used as a sterilization method for decades. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps break down microorganisms such as bacteria, algae and fungi in just 10 seconds of contact. When placed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights could dramatically boost your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are installed within your ductwork, where they function constantly. Air blows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner runs, and intense UVC rays inactivate and kill most viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die briefly after UVC exposure.
5 Advantages of Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other kinds of air cleaning on the market, why should you think about putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these benefits:
1. Sterilized Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is consistently damp, namely during warmer months. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria are unable to grow.
2. Cleaner Indoor Air
Media air filters can trap the smaller bacteria and viruses. UV lights reduce the concentration of microorganisms in the air without affecting airflow.
3. Better Efficiency
By sustaining enough airflow and keeping the equipment clean, UV lights help your HVAC system work more easily. This, in turn, reduces your energy costs each month.
4. Longer HVAC Lifetime
Clean equipment functions more evenly and malfunctions less regularly. It might even run years longer.
5. Lower Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces generate condensate, which drains away from a nearby pipe. As the years go by, algae can obstruct the drain line. By halting organic growth initially, UVC lights reduce the likelihood of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.
Who Should Install Germicidal UV Lights?
When you consider all the benefits they offer your HVAC system, UV lights could clearly prove worthwhile in any home. You are more likely to notice adding HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your family has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory condition
- Weaker immune system
If you’re considering installing germicidal UV lights, speak with R & M Climate Control Service Experts. We can recommend the perfect system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s wise to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a professional as UVC exposure may result in skin or eye injuries. To learn more about how UV lights function, or to request a free home comfort consultation, reach us at 865-229-6176 right away!