How Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System Eliminates Viruses

The sun produces three kinds of ultraviolet (UV) light: UVA, UVB and UVC. You are likely most familiar with UVA and UVB rays, which can result in sunburn unless you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UVC rays are distinct. The sun still produces them, but the earth’s ozone layer soaks up all UVC rays, so you don’t come across them in nature. 

UVC light grants exceptional germicidal benefits. In actuality, it has been used as a cleaning method for a long time. As the highest energy portion of the UV radiation spectrum, UVC light helps destroy microorganisms such as bacteria, algae and fungi in just 10 seconds of contact. When placed in your HVAC system, germicidal UV lights may drastically boost your indoor air quality. 

How Do HVAC UV Lights Work? 

Ultraviolet lamps are placed within your ductwork, where they run constantly. Air flows past the lights when the furnace or air conditioner operates, and strong UVC rays inactivate and destroy the majority of viruses, bacteria or mold present in the air. Inactivated microorganisms can’t reproduce and die soon after UVC exposure. 

5 Pluses of Using UV Lights in Your HVAC System 

With other types of air cleaning possible, why should you think about placing a UV light in your HVAC system? Think about these perks: 

1. Clean Coils 

The evaporator coil in your HVAC system is consistently wet, particularly when it’s hot. By always shining UVC light on the coil, mold and bacteria cannot grow. 

2. Fresher Indoor Air 

Media air filters can catch tiny bacteria and viruses. UV lights lower the amount of microorganisms in the air without affecting airflow. 

3. Better Efficiency 

By sustaining steady airflow and keeping the equipment clean, UV lights help your HVAC system perform more easily. This, in turn, lowers your energy costs each month. 

4. Extended HVAC Lifetime 

Clean equipment works more evenly and malfunctions less frequently. It might even run years longer. 

5. Lower Chance of Condensate Drain Line Clogs 

Air conditioners and high-efficiency furnaces produce condensate, which flows away into a nearby pipe. As time passes, algae can collect in the drain line. By stopping organic growth at the beginning, UVC lights lower the chance of water damage from a clogged condensate drain pan. 

Who Should Use Germicidal UV Lights? 

When you weigh all the perks they offer your HVAC system, UV lights could quickly prove useful in any house. You are more apt to recognize installing HVAC UV lights if you or anyone in your home has: 

• Allergies 

• Asthma 
• Any respiratory condition 
• Compromised immune system 

If you’re thinking about getting germicidal UV lights, talk with Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We can suggest the ideal system based on your HVAC equipment and indoor air quality needs. It’s best to leave UV light installation and maintenance to an expert since UVC exposure may result in skin or eye injuries. To find out about how UV lights perform, or to schedule a free home comfort consultation, contact us at 866-397-3787 now!