Do UV Lights in Your HVAC System Kill Viruses?
The sun emits three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are probably most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which might produce sunburn unless you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are different. The sun still emits them, but the earth’s ozone layer takes care of all UVC rays, so you don’t come across them in nature.
UVC light comes with outstanding germicidal benefits. In reality, it has been used as a sterilization method for a long time. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps eradicate microorganisms such as bacteria, algae and fungi in just 10 seconds of contact. When placed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can dramatically improve your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are used within your ductwork, where they function constantly. Air flows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner heats or cools, and strong UVC rays inactivate and kill most viruses, bacteria or mold found in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die shortly after UVC exposure.
5 Pluses of Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other forms of air cleaning available, why should you think about putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Review these advantages:
1. Clean Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is routinely damp, especially when it’s hot. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria are unable to grow.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can trap tiny bacteria and viruses. UV lights decrease the concentration of microorganisms in the air without reducing airflow.
3. Improved Efficiency
By maintaining adequate airflow and keeping the equipment as clean as possible, UV lights help your HVAC system work more effectively. This, in turn, decreases your energy costs each month.
4. Extended HVAC Life Expectancy
Clean equipment operates more smoothly and needs repairs less often. It might even work years longer.
5. Less Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which drains away into a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can fill up the drain line. By stopping organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights lower the chance of water damage from an overflowing condensate drain pan.
Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?
When you review all the benefits they offer your HVAC system, UV lights could easily prove worthwhile in any home. You are most likely to notice adding HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory ailment
- Compromised immune system
If you’re looking into installing germicidal UV lights, speak with Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We can help you determine the best system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s wise to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a trained technician since UVC exposure might lead to skin or eye injuries. To learn more about how UV lights function, or to request a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 303-647-5853 today!
