The sun produces three varieties of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are often most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which may produce sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are different. The sun still produces them, but the earth’s ozone layer soaks up all UVC rays, so you don’t experience them in nature.
UVC light offers outstanding 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 break down microorganisms including bacteria, algae and fungi within 10 seconds of contact. When placed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights could dramatically boost your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are placed inside your ductwork, where they run constantly. Air moves past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner heats or cools, and powerful UVC rays inactivate and kill the majority of viruses, bacteria or mold floating in the air. Inactivated microorganisms won’t reproduce and die briefly after UVC exposure.
5 Advantages of Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other forms of air cleaning in use, why should you think over putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these pluses:
1. Clean Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is routinely damp, especially in the summer. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria cannot take hold.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can catch the smaller bacteria and viruses. UV lights reduce the number of microorganisms in the air without restricting airflow.
3. Enhanced Efficiency
By providing normal airflow and keeping the equipment as clean as possible, UV lights help your HVAC system run more easily. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs every month.
4. Longer HVAC Life Expectancy
Clean equipment performs more smoothly and breaks down less frequently. It can even last years longer.
5. Reduced Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces produce condensate, which flows away through a nearby pipe. Over time, algae can fill up the drain line. By halting organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights lower the odds of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.
Who Should Install Germicidal UV Lights?
When you weigh all the perks they provide your HVAC system, UV lights could clearly prove valuable in any home. You are more apt to notice installing HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory ailment
- Weaker immune system
If you’re considering getting germicidal UV lights, talk with Aramendia Plumbing, Heating and Air. 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 an expert because UVC exposure may lead to skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights can help, or to arrange a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 210-404-4233 today!