The sun releases three varieties of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are usually most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which can cause sunburn unless you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are different. The sun still releases them, but the earth’s ozone layer soaks up all UVC rays, so you don’t come across them in nature.
UVC light comes with incredible germicidal benefits. In reality, it has been used as a cleaning method for many years. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps eradicate microorganisms such as bacteria, algae and fungi in under 10 seconds of contact. When placed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights may seriously improve your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are used inside your ductwork, where they operate constantly. Air moves past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner operates, and strong UVC rays inactivate and neutralize most viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die soon after UVC exposure.
5 Advantages of Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other types of air cleaning possible, why should you think about placing a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these perks:
1. Sterilized Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is consistently wet, particularly during warmer months. By continuously shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria cannot flourish.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can catch the smaller bacteria and viruses. UV lights decrease the amount of microorganisms in the air without reducing airflow.
3. Better Efficiency
By maintaining normal airflow and keeping the equipment as clean as possible, UV lights help your HVAC system work more efficiently. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs from month to month.
4. Extended HVAC Lifetime
Clean equipment works more smoothly and malfunctions less frequently. It may even work years longer.
5. Lower Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces generate condensate, which drains away into a nearby pipe. Over time, algae can collect in the drain line. By halting organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights decrease the odds of water damage from an overflowing condensate drain pan.
Who Should Install Germicidal UV Lights?
When you weigh all the advantages they grant your HVAC system, UV lights could clearly prove valuable in any home. You are most likely to benefit from installing HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory ailment
- Weaker immune system
If you’re looking into adding germicidal UV lights, chat with Epperson Service Experts. We can recommend the ideal system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s important to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a trained technician since UVC exposure might lead to skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights function, or to request a free home comfort consultation, call us at 843-619-3781 right away!