How Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System Kills Viruses

The sun releases three varieties of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are probably most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which can cause sunburn unless you wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are different. The sun still creates them, but the earth’s ozone layer takes care of all UVC rays, so you don’t experience them in nature.

UVC light grants useful germicidal benefits. In reality, it has been used as a purification method for decades. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps eradicate microorganisms including 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 installed within your ductwork, where they function constantly. Air blows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner operates, and powerful UVC rays inactivate and destroy the majority of viruses, bacteria or mold found in the air. Inactivated microorganisms don’t reproduce and die soon after UVC exposure.

5 Advantages of Having UV Lights in Your HVAC System

With other forms of air cleaning available, why should you think over placing a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these benefits:

1. Sterilized Coils

The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is often moist, particularly during warmer months. By continuously shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria are unable to grow.

2. Cleaner Indoor Air

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

3. Enhanced Efficiency

By providing adequate airflow and keeping the equipment as clean as possible, UV lights help your HVAC system operate more efficiently. This, in turn, reduces your energy costs from month to month.

4. Greater HVAC Lifetime

Clean equipment operates more smoothly and needs repairs less often. It might even run years longer.

5. Reduced Condensate Drain Line Clogs

Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which travels away from a nearby pipe. Over time, algae can block the drain line. By stopping organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights reduce the chance of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.

Who Should Have Germicidal UV Lights?

When you review all the advantages they provide your HVAC system, UV lights could easily prove worthwhile in any residence. You are more likely to benefit from adding HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your family has:

• • Allergies

• • Asthma

• • Any respiratory ailment

• • Compromised immune system

If you’re thinking about adding germicidal UV lights, talk with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We can suggest the perfect system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s important to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a professional since UVC exposure can result in skin or eye injuries. To learn more about how UV lights can help, or to arrange a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 866-397-3787 right away!