The sun releases three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are usually most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which can result in sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are separate. The sun still creates them, but the earth’s ozone layer takes care of all UVC rays, so you aren’t exposed to them in nature.
UVC light comes with incredible germicidal benefits. In fact, it has been used as a cleaning method for decades. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps eradicate microorganisms like bacteria, algae and fungi within 10 seconds of contact. When used in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights could dramatically boost your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are used in your ductwork, where they function around the clock. Air flows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner heats or cools, and powerful UVC rays inactivate and neutralize the majority of viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms cannot reproduce and die soon after UVC exposure.
5 Advantages of Installing 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 pluses:
1. Clean Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is frequently wet, namely in the summer. By continuously shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will not take hold.
2. Cleaner Indoor Air
Media air filters can catch minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights lower the number of microorganisms in the air without reducing airflow.
3. Enhanced Efficiency
By providing enough airflow and keeping the equipment as clean as possible, UV lights help your HVAC system work more efficiently. This, in turn, reduces your energy costs every month.
4. Longer HVAC Life Expectancy
Clean equipment works more smoothly and malfunctions less often. It may even last years longer.
5. Less Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces produce condensate, which drains away from a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can block the drain line. By preventing organic growth in the first place, UVC lights lower the chance of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.
Who Should Install Germicidal UV Lights?
When you weigh all the pluses they grant your HVAC system, UV lights could clearly prove helpful in any home. You are more likely to recognize having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your family has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory issue
- Weaker immune system
If you’re looking into installing germicidal UV lights, discuss it with Chief/Bauer Service Experts. We can help you determine the best system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s important to leave UV light installation and maintenance to an expert because UVC exposure might cause skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights can help, or to arrange a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 217-689-2469 today!