The sun releases three varieties of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are usually most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which may produce sunburn unless you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are different. The sun still emits them, but the earth’s ozone layer soaks up all UVC rays, so you don’t come across them in nature.
UVC light grants fantastic germicidal benefits. In reality, it has been used as a cleaning method for decades. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps kill microorganisms like bacteria, algae and fungi within 10 seconds of contact. When installed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights may seriously boost your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are placed within your ductwork, where they function constantly. Air flows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner heats or cools, and strong UVC rays inactivate and destroy nearly all viruses, bacteria or mold floating in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die briefly after UVC exposure.
5 Benefits of Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other forms of air cleaning available, why should you consider installing a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these pluses:
1. Sterilized Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is consistently damp, particularly in the summer. By always shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria are unable to flourish.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can latch onto minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights reduce the concentration of microorganisms in the air without reducing airflow.
3. Better Efficiency
By providing normal airflow and keeping the equipment clean, UV lights help your HVAC system run more easily. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs from month to month.
4. Extended HVAC Life Span
Clean equipment operates more smoothly and malfunctions less often. It can even run years longer.
5. Reduced Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces generate condensate, which flows away into a nearby pipe. As the years go by, algae can obstruct the drain line. By stopping organic growth in the first place, UVC lights minimize the chance of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.
Who Should Use Germicidal UV Lights?
When you weigh all the advantages they grant your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove worthwhile in any residence. You are more likely to appreciate installing HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your family has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory condition
- Weaker immune system
If you’re looking into getting germicidal UV lights, speak with Freschi 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 can lead to skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights can help, or to arrange a free home comfort consultation, reach us at 925-384-1303 today!