The sun emits three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are probably most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which can result in sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are distinct. 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 grants incredible germicidal benefits. In fact, it has been used as a sterilization method for decades. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps eradicate microorganisms like bacteria, algae and fungi in just 10 seconds of contact. When placed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can drastically boost your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are placed within your ductwork, where they operate continuously. Air flows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner runs, and powerful UVC rays inactivate and kill nearly all viruses, bacteria or mold found in the air. Inactivated microorganisms don’t reproduce and die soon after UVC exposure.
5 Benefits of Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other kinds of air cleaning possible, why should you consider placing a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these pluses:
1. Cleaner Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is often wet, namely during warmer months. By always shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria are unable to grow.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can trap minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights decrease the number of microorganisms in the air without restricting airflow.
3. Improved Efficiency
By sustaining adequate airflow and keeping the equipment as clean as possible, UV lights help your HVAC system run more easily. This, in turn, reduces your energy costs every month.
4. Greater HVAC Lifetime
Clean equipment works more evenly and breaks down less frequently. It may even work years longer.
5. Less Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which drains away through a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can fill up the drain line. By stopping organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights decrease the chance of water damage from an overflowing condensate drain pan.
Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?
When you think about all the advantages they offer your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove useful in any residence. You are more likely to recognize having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your family has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory condition
- Compromised immune system
If you’re thinking about adding germicidal UV lights, talk with BW/Cook Service Experts. We can suggest the perfect 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 as UVC exposure may result in skin or eye injuries. To learn more about how UV lights perform, or to request a free home comfort consultation, call us at 574-218-6404 right away!