How Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System Wipes Out Viruses

The sun emits three types of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are often most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which can cause sunburn unless you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are different. The sun still creates them, but the earth’s ozone layer soaks up all UVC rays, so you aren’t exposed to them in nature. 

UVC light comes with useful germicidal benefits. In actuality, it has been used as a sterilization method for a long time. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps eradicate microorganisms such as bacteria, algae and fungi within 10 seconds of contact. When placed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights can seriously enhance your indoor air quality

How Do HVAC UV Lights Work? 

Ultraviolet lamps are used within your ductwork, where they operate constantly. Air moves past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner runs, and strong UVC rays inactivate and kill the majority of viruses, bacteria or mold floating in the air. Inactivated microorganisms cannot reproduce and die briefly after UVC exposure. 

5 Benefits of Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System 

With other types of air cleaning possible, why should you consider putting a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these benefits: 

1. Clean Coils 

The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is consistently wet, namely when it’s hot. By constantly shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria will not take hold. 

2. Fresher Indoor Air 

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

3. Better Efficiency 

By maintaining steady airflow and keeping the equipment cleaner, UV lights help your HVAC system function more effectively. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs each month. 

4. Extended HVAC Life Expectancy 

Clean equipment performs more steadily and breaks down less frequently. It could even run years longer. 

5. Lower Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs 

Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces generate condensate, which flows away through a nearby pipe. As the years go by, algae can obstruct the drain line. By halting organic growth in the first place, UVC lights minimize the likelihood of water damage from an overflowing condensate drain pan. 

Who Should Install Germicidal UV Lights? 

When you consider all the benefits they grant your HVAC system, UV lights could clearly prove worthwhile in any house. You are most likely to notice having HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your family has: 

  • Allergies 
  • Asthma 
  • Any respiratory condition 
  • Weaker immune system 

If you’re considering getting germicidal UV lights, speak 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 wise to leave UV light installation and maintenance to a trained technician because UVC exposure could cause skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights perform, or to schedule a free home comfort consultation, reach us at 866-397-3787 right away!