The sun emits three varieties of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are probably most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which may produce sunburn unless you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are separate. The sun still creates them, but the earth’s ozone layer absorbs all UVC rays, so you don’t come across them in nature.
UVC light grants incredible germicidal benefits. In actuality, 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 including bacteria, algae and fungi in just 10 seconds of contact. When used in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can drastically boost your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are installed inside your ductwork, where they operate constantly. Air flows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner heats or cools, and intense UVC rays inactivate and neutralize 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 types of air cleaning in use, why should you think about putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these perks:
1. Clean Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is consistently moist, namely in the summer. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria cannot flourish.
2. Healthier Indoor Air
Media air filters can latch onto the smaller bacteria and viruses. UV lights reduce the number of microorganisms in the air without affecting airflow.
3. Enhanced Efficiency
By sustaining steady airflow and keeping the equipment as clean as possible, UV lights help your HVAC system work more easily. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs each month.
4. Longer HVAC Life Expectancy
Clean equipment works more smoothly and needs repairs less frequently. It may even work years longer.
5. Less Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which flows away through a nearby pipe. Over time, algae can fill up the drain line. By halting organic growth initially, UVC lights lower the risk of water damage from a blocked condensate drain pan.
Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?
When you consider all the pluses they provide your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove helpful in any home. You are most likely to benefit from installing HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory ailment
- Weakened immune system
If you’re considering installing germicidal UV lights, talk with Sunbeam Service Experts. We can suggest 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 as UVC exposure could result in skin or eye injuries. To discover about how UV lights function, or to request a free home comfort consultation, call us at 716-427-6807 right away!