The sun emits three kinds of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are usually most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which can produce sunburn unless you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are different. The sun still produces them, but the earth’s ozone layer absorbs all UVC rays, so you don’t experience them in nature.
UVC light provides highly beneficial germicidal benefits. In reality, it has been used as a purification 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 within 10 seconds of contact. When used in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can dramatically improve your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are used in your ductwork, where they run around the clock. Air blows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner operates, and strong UVC rays inactivate and neutralize most viruses, bacteria or mold floating in the air. Inactivated microorganisms don’t reproduce and die briefly after UVC exposure.
5 Advantages of Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other types of air cleaning on the market, why should you think about installing a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these perks:
1. Sterilized Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is consistently wet, namely when it’s hot. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will not take hold.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can latch onto the smaller bacteria and viruses. UV lights decrease the amount of microorganisms in the air without restricting airflow.
3. Better Efficiency
By sustaining enough airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system perform more efficiently. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs every month.
4. Greater HVAC Life Span
Clean equipment works more evenly and needs repairs less regularly. It can even work years longer.
5. Lower Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces generate condensate, which drains away through a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can obstruct the drain line. By halting organic growth in the first place, UVC lights decrease the likelihood of water damage from an overflowing condensate drain pan.
Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?
When you consider all the perks they grant your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove worthwhile in any house. You are most likely to notice installing HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory condition
- Compromised immune system
If you’re looking into adding germicidal UV lights, chat with TML Service Experts. We can help you determine the best system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s best to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a trained technician since UVC exposure may result in skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights can help, or to request a free home comfort consultation, call us at 208-488-4892 right away!