The sun emits three varieties of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are often most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which may cause sunburn unless you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are distinct. The sun still creates them, but the earth’s ozone layer absorbs all UVC rays, so you don’t experience them in nature.
UVC light provides 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 in under 10 seconds of contact. When placed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights could drastically enhance your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are used in your ductwork, where they operate constantly. Air moves past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner operates, and strong UVC rays inactivate and kill most viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms don’t reproduce and die shortly after UVC exposure.
5 Pluses of Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other forms of air cleaning available, why should you consider putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these perks:
1. Clean Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is frequently wet, especially when it’s hot. By continuously shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria are unable to take hold.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can trap minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights decrease the amount of microorganisms in the air without reducing airflow.
3. Better Efficiency
By sustaining enough airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system work more easily. This, in turn, decreases your energy costs from month to month.
4. Greater HVAC Life Expectancy
Clean equipment performs more smoothly and malfunctions less regularly. It may even run years longer.
5. Reduced Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which travels away from a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can collect in the drain line. By halting organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights reduce the risk of water damage from a blocked condensate drain pan.
Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?
When you consider all the pluses they provide your HVAC system, UV lights could easily prove worthwhile in any home. You are more apt to notice adding HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory condition
- Compromised immune system
If you’re looking into getting germicidal UV lights, discuss it with Barlow Service Experts. We can suggest the best system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s wise to leave UV light installation and maintenance to an expert as UVC exposure may lead to skin or eye injuries. To discover about how UV lights function, or to request a free home comfort consultation, reach us at 801-436-8985 today!