The sun produces three types 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 emits them, but the earth’s ozone layer takes care of all UVC rays, so you don’t experience them in nature.
UVC light offers highly beneficial germicidal benefits. In fact, it has been used as a purification method for a long time. 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 may dramatically improve your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are used within your ductwork, where they operate continuously. Air flows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner runs, and intense UVC rays inactivate and destroy most viruses, bacteria or mold floating in the air. Inactivated microorganisms cannot reproduce and die shortly after UVC exposure.
5 Pluses of Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other kinds of air cleaning in use, why should you think about placing a UV light in your HVAC system? Review these advantages:
1. Cleaner Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is frequently damp, particularly when it’s hot. By always shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria are unable to take hold.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can latch onto the smaller bacteria and viruses. UV lights reduce the amount of microorganisms in the air without restricting airflow.
3. Improved Efficiency
By sustaining steady airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system operate more effectively. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs every month.
4. Extended HVAC Life Span
Clean equipment works more smoothly and breaks down less often. It might even run years longer.
5. Lower Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces generate condensate, which travels away into a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can collect in the drain line. By preventing organic growth initially, UVC lights lower the likelihood of water damage from an overflowing condensate drain pan.
Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?
When you explore all the benefits they offer your HVAC system, UV lights could clearly prove helpful in any home. You are more likely to appreciate having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory issue
- Compromised immune system
If you’re considering installing germicidal UV lights, chat with McElroy Service Experts. We can suggest the best system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s best to leave UV light installation and maintenance to an expert as UVC exposure could result in skin or eye injuries. To learn more about how UV lights can help, or to schedule a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 308-210-4398 right away!