The sun releases three varieties of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are likely most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which may produce sunburn unless you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are different. The sun still creates them, but the earth’s ozone layer takes care of all UVC rays, so you don’t come across them in nature.
UVC light provides useful 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 destroy microorganisms such as bacteria, algae and fungi within 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 used in your ductwork, where they operate continuously. Air blows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner heats or cools, and powerful UVC rays inactivate and neutralize most viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms don’t reproduce and die briefly after UVC exposure.
5 Pluses of Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other forms of air cleaning on the market, why should you think over placing a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these advantages:
1. Clean Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is consistently wet, namely in the summer. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will not grow.
2. Cleaner Indoor Air
Media air filters can trap tiny bacteria and viruses. UV lights decrease the concentration of microorganisms in the air without restricting airflow.
3. Better Efficiency
By providing adequate airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system perform more efficiently. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs from month to month.
4. Extended HVAC Lifetime
Clean equipment operates more evenly and malfunctions less regularly. It may even run years longer.
5. Lower Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces produce condensate, which travels away through a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can block the drain line. By stopping organic growth in the first place, UVC lights minimize the chance of water damage from a blocked condensate drain pan.
Who Should Use Germicidal UV Lights?
When you review all the perks they offer your HVAC system, UV lights could easily prove useful in any residence. You are more apt to appreciate having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory condition
- Weakened immune system
If you’re thinking about getting germicidal UV lights, talk with D&K Home Services by Enercare. We can help you determine the ideal system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s best to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a professional as UVC exposure might cause skin or eye injuries. To learn more about how UV lights work, or to request a free home comfort consultation, reach us at 613-707-2421 now!