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 result in sunburn unless you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are distinct. The sun still releases them, but the earth’s ozone layer soaks up all UVC rays, so you don’t experience them in nature.
UVC light comes with exceptional germicidal benefits. In actuality, it has been used as a cleaning method for many years. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps break down microorganisms including bacteria, algae and fungi in just 10 seconds of contact. When used in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can drastically boost your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are placed in your ductwork, where they work around the clock. 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 present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die shortly after UVC exposure.
5 Advantages of Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other forms of air cleaning on the market, why should you think about placing a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these pluses:
1. Cleaner Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is routinely moist, namely when it’s hot. By always shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will struggle to grow.
2. Fresher Indoor Air
Media air filters can latch onto minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights lower the amount of microorganisms in the air without restricting airflow.
3. Improved Efficiency
By sustaining normal airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system operate more effectively. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs from month to month.
4. Longer HVAC Life Span
Clean equipment functions more evenly and breaks down less regularly. It might even run years longer.
5. Less Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces produce condensate, which travels away from a nearby pipe. Over time, algae can obstruct the drain line. By stopping organic growth initially, UVC lights minimize the odds of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.
Who Should Install Germicidal UV Lights?
When you explore all the pluses they offer your HVAC system, UV lights could clearly prove useful in any home. You are more apt to appreciate having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory issue
- Weaker immune system
If you’re looking into adding germicidal UV lights, talk with Robinson Service Experts . We can suggest the ideal 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 as UVC exposure might lead to skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights function, or to schedule a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 847-306-8730 today!