How Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System Kills Viruses

The sun emits three varieties of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are probably most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which may cause sunburn unless you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are distinct. The sun still emits them, but the earth’s ozone layer soaks up all UVC rays, so you aren’t exposed to them in nature.

UVC light offers highly beneficial germicidal benefits. In actuality, it has been used as a sterilization method for many years. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps break down microorganisms such as bacteria, algae and fungi in under 10 seconds of contact. When installed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights may drastically boost your indoor air quality.

How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?

Ultraviolet lamps are placed in your ductwork, where they function around the clock. Air blows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner heats or cools, and intense UVC rays inactivate and destroy most viruses, bacteria or mold floating in the air. Inactivated microorganisms don’t reproduce and die shortly after UVC exposure.

5 Benefits of Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System

With other methods of air cleaning in use, why should you consider putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these benefits:

1. Cleaner Coils

The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is consistently moist, especially in the summer. By continuously shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria cannot flourish.

2. Healthier Indoor Air

Media air filters can catch tiny bacteria and viruses. UV lights decrease the amount of microorganisms in the air without restricting airflow.

3. Enhanced Efficiency

By providing normal airflow and keeping the equipment as clean as possible, UV lights help your HVAC system operate more effectively. This, in turn, reduces your energy costs from month to month.

4. Extended HVAC Lifetime

Clean equipment operates more steadily and breaks down less frequently. It might even work years longer.

5. Reduced Condensate Drain Line Clogs

Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces produce condensate, which drains away from a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can fill up the drain line. By preventing organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights reduce the chance of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.

Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?

When you weigh all the perks they grant your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove helpful in any house. You are more apt to recognize adding HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your family has:

• • Allergies

• • Asthma

• • Any respiratory condition

• • Weakened immune system

If you’re considering adding germicidal UV lights, discuss it with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We can recommend the ideal 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 cause skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights work, or to arrange a free home comfort consultation, reach us at 866-397-3787 now!