How Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System Eliminates Viruses

The sun releases three kinds of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are often most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which might result in sunburn unless you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are distinct. The sun still emits them, but the earth’s ozone layer soaks up all UVC rays, so you don’t experience them in nature.

UVC light comes with outstanding 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 destroy microorganisms including bacteria, algae and fungi in just 10 seconds of contact. When installed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights may dramatically boost your indoor air quality.

How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?

Ultraviolet lamps are used within your ductwork, where they run around the clock. Air moves past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner operates, and intense UVC rays inactivate and destroy nearly all viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms cannot reproduce and die briefly after UVC exposure.

5 Benefits of Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System

With other kinds of air cleaning available, why should you consider installing a UV light in your HVAC system? Review these benefits:

1. Clean Coils

The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is often wet, namely when it’s hot. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria cannot take hold.

2. Fresher Indoor Air

Media air filters can catch the smaller bacteria and viruses. UV lights reduce the amount of microorganisms in the air without restricting airflow.

3. Enhanced Efficiency

By providing steady airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system perform more efficiently. This, in turn, decreases your energy costs from month to month.

4. Extended HVAC Life Span

Clean equipment works more smoothly and breaks down less often. It can even run years longer.

5. Lower Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs

Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which flows away into a nearby pipe. Over time, algae can clog the drain line. By preventing organic growth in the first place, UVC lights reduce the odds of water damage from an overflowing condensate drain pan.

Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?

When you weigh all the benefits they offer your HVAC system, UV lights could easily prove helpful in any home. You are more apt to benefit from adding HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has:

• • Allergies

• • Asthma

• • Any respiratory issue

• • Weakened immune system

If you’re thinking about getting germicidal UV lights, chat with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We can suggest 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 professional because UVC exposure could lead to skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights perform, or to schedule a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 866-397-3787 right away!