The sun produces three kinds 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 use a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are separate. 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 offers useful germicidal benefits. In fact, it has been used as a cleaning method for a long time. 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 used in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights could drastically enhance your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are used in your ductwork, where they work constantly. Air blows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner heats or cools, and powerful UVC rays inactivate and kill most viruses, bacteria or mold found in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die soon after UVC exposure.
5 Benefits of Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other kinds of air cleaning in use, why should you think over installing a UV light in your HVAC system? Review these benefits:
1. Clean Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is often moist, especially during warmer months. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will struggle to flourish.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can trap minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights lower the number of microorganisms in the air without affecting airflow.
3. Enhanced Efficiency
By sustaining normal airflow and keeping the equipment as clean as possible, UV lights help your HVAC system work more easily. This, in turn, decreases your energy costs each month.
4. Longer HVAC Lifetime
Clean equipment performs more smoothly and needs repairs less regularly. It might even last years longer.
5. Less Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces generate condensate, which drains away from a nearby pipe. Over time, algae can fill up the drain line. By halting organic growth initially, UVC lights decrease the chance of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.
Who Should Install Germicidal UV Lights?
When you weigh all the benefits they offer your HVAC system, UV lights could easily prove useful in any residence. You are most likely to recognize adding HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory issue
- Weaker immune system
If you’re looking into getting germicidal UV lights, speak with Peachtree Service Experts. We can help you determine 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 because UVC exposure may lead to skin or eye injuries. To discover about how UV lights perform, or to schedule a free home comfort consultation, call us at 678-235-9699 right away!