The sun produces three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are likely most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which might cause sunburn unless you wear 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 come across them in nature.
UVC light grants fantastic germicidal benefits. In fact, it has been used as a purification method for many years. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps kill microorganisms such as bacteria, algae and fungi within 10 seconds of contact. When used in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can drastically improve your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are installed inside your ductwork, where they operate continuously. Air moves past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner runs, and intense UVC rays inactivate and kill nearly all viruses, bacteria or mold floating in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die shortly after UVC exposure.
5 Benefits of Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other types of air cleaning on the market, why should you think over putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these benefits:
1. Cleaner Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is routinely damp, particularly in the summer. By continuously shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will not grow.
2. Cleaner Indoor Air
Media air filters can latch onto the smaller bacteria and viruses. UV lights reduce the concentration of microorganisms in the air without restricting airflow.
3. Better Efficiency
By sustaining steady airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system perform more efficiently. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs from month to month.
4. Longer HVAC Life Expectancy
Clean equipment functions more smoothly and malfunctions less often. It may even run years longer.
5. Less 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 clog the drain line. By preventing organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights minimize the likelihood of water damage from a blocked condensate drain pan.
Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?
When you think about all the perks they grant your HVAC system, UV lights could easily prove helpful in any residence. You are more apt to notice having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory ailment
- Compromised immune system
If you’re considering adding germicidal UV lights, speak with Stark Services. We can suggest the ideal 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 cause skin or eye injuries. To learn more about how UV lights can help, or to arrange a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 817-668-6689 right away!