How Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System Kills Viruses

The sun produces three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are probably most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which might result in sunburn unless you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are separate. The sun still emits them, but the earth’s ozone layer takes care of all UVC rays, so you don’t come across them in nature.

UVC light provides exceptional germicidal benefits. In reality, it has been used as a sterilization method for many years. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps break down microorganisms like bacteria, algae and fungi in under 10 seconds of contact. When used in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights may drastically improve your indoor air quality.

How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?

Ultraviolet lamps are installed in your ductwork, where they function around the clock. Air moves past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner operates, and intense UVC rays inactivate and kill nearly all viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms won’t reproduce and die shortly after UVC exposure.

5 Advantages of Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System

With other kinds of air cleaning available, why should you think about installing a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these pluses:

1. Cleaner Coils

The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is often wet, particularly when it’s hot. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria are unable to take hold.

2. Healthier Indoor Air

Media air filters can latch onto minuscule bacteria and viruses. UV lights reduce the amount of microorganisms in the air without affecting airflow.

3. Improved Efficiency

By maintaining steady airflow and keeping the equipment clean, UV lights help your HVAC system run more efficiently. This, in turn, reduces your energy costs from month to month.

4. Extended HVAC Lifetime

Clean equipment works more evenly and breaks down less often. It could even last years longer.

5. Less Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs

Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which travels away through a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can clog the drain line. By stopping organic growth in the first place, UVC lights decrease the odds of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.

Who Should Install Germicidal UV Lights?

When you think about all the perks they offer your HVAC system, UV lights could easily prove helpful in any residence. You are most likely to appreciate installing HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your family has:

• • Allergies

• • Asthma

• • Any respiratory issue

• • Weakened immune system

If you’re looking into installing germicidal UV lights, talk with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We can recommend the best 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 can lead to skin or eye injuries. To discover about how UV lights work, or to request a free home comfort consultation, reach us at 866-397-3787 today!