The sun produces three kinds of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are often most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which might cause sunburn unless you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are separate. The sun still produces them, but the earth’s ozone layer soaks up all UVC rays, so you aren’t exposed to them in nature.
UVC light grants useful germicidal benefits. In actuality, it has been used as a sterilization method for decades. 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 placed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights could drastically boost your indoor air quality.
How Do HVAC UV Lights Work?
Ultraviolet lamps are installed inside your ductwork, where they function around the clock. Air flows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner operates, and powerful UVC rays inactivate and destroy most viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms won’t reproduce and die briefly after UVC exposure.
5 Advantages of Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System
With other kinds of air cleaning in use, why should you think over putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Consider these advantages:
1. Sterilized Coils
The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is routinely wet, especially in the summer. By always 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 lower the concentration of microorganisms in the air without affecting airflow.
3. Better Efficiency
By maintaining adequate airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system perform more efficiently. This, in turn, reduces your energy costs each month.
4. Longer HVAC Life Expectancy
Clean equipment operates more evenly and needs repairs less frequently. It can even work years longer.
5. Reduced Condensate Drain Line Clogs
Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces create condensate, which flows away from a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can collect in the drain line. By preventing organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights decrease the risk of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan.
Who Should Install Germicidal UV Lights?
When you consider all the advantages they grant your HVAC system, UV lights could clearly prove worthwhile in any residence. You are more likely to appreciate adding HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your household has:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Any respiratory issue
- Compromised immune system
If you’re looking into adding germicidal UV lights, talk with Gordon's Service Experts. We can recommend the ideal system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s best to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a trained technician because UVC exposure may result in skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights can help, or to request a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 405-432-2197 now!