When you think of ultraviolet light, you may picture getting sunburned after a few hours spent relaxing at the pool. And yet, UV light is also something you can use for improving indoor air quality. Sunscreen safeguards against UVA and UVB rays, but UVC is the form of light applied in air purification. If you deal with allergies or asthma or hope to limit the dispersal of illnesses across your home, a UV light in the HVAC system could be the air quality solution you’ve been hoping for!
How Does a UV Light Operate?
The germicidal impacts of ultraviolet light have been known for more than 100 years. UVC rays were even used to treat tuberculosis. These days, germicidal lamps are implemented in hospitals, food processing plants, water treatment plants and air purification equipment.
A UV lamp placed inside your HVAC unit helps the air quality in your home by deactivating microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, mold and more. It only takes 10 seconds of contact to disrupt these germs’ DNA, killing them or preventing them from replicating.
UV lights also address volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used in cleaners and repellents on top of airborne bioaerosols like pollen and pet dander. However, UV lights don’t physically 'trap' contaminants, so you still require an air filtration system to extract dust, fibers and other particles from your indoor air.
How Successful Are UV Lights?
Provided they are installed like they're supposed to and use the right wavelength of UV light, germicidal lamps are very effective at enhancing indoor air quality. One study from Duke University illustrated that UV light deactivated more than 97 percent of drug-resistant bacteria from the air in hospital rooms. Another study noted “significantly lower” fungal levels within a commercial property's HVAC system after four months of operating a UV light.
Benefits of UV Lights
Add an ultraviolet lamp in your HVAC system to take advantage of these benefits:
- Cleaner indoor air: UV light technology sanitizes the air around the clock without introducing chemicals into the environment. As opposed to some air purifiers, ultraviolet lamps don’t create ozone, an infamous lung irritant that is harmful to individuals with asthma, allergies or prolonged lung conditions.
- Lower risk of getting sick: When used in tandem with good personal hygiene, germ-killing UV products can lower the likelihood of contracting viral and bacterial infections.
- A layer of protection for your HVAC system: Mold, fungi and bacteria can negatively impact your heating and cooling equipment. Keep the system operating smoothly and efficiently with a quality UV light.
- Smaller HVAC maintenance and repair needs: With an inherently cleaner central HVAC system, you enjoy lower maintenance requirements and minimal need for emergency repairs. These savings can help offset the cost of using a UV light and replacing the bulb.
Where Do UV Lights Get Installed?
If you decide on an air-sanitizing UV light, your installer should position it inside your ductwork near the HVAC system. There, the lamp affects the air before it spreads across your home.
If you choose a coil-sanitizing UV light, it should sit around the AC evaporator coil. There, it affects mold and bacteria that grow on the damp coil, keeping your system clean and operating smoothly.
Are UV Lights Safe?
The sun constantly releases invisible UV radiation. As you know, UVA and UVB rays can burn your skin, so it’s important to apply an effective sunscreen when enjoying time outdoors. The sun also emits UVC rays, the most damaging form of solar radiation capable of killing microorganisms and irritating other living tissue, particularly the skin and eyes.
Fortunately, the atmosphere filters out these rays entirely, so they don’t get through to the earth’s surface.
Understanding that UVC rays are harmful, why should you feel okay with installing a UVC light in your HVAC system? It’s simple—the light is restricted to your ductwork where you won't come in contact with it, so it presents no risk to you and your family. When the time comes to maintain the lamp or change the bulb, your HVAC technician will shut off the system for a short time to avoid exposure to the damaging light.
How Long Do UV Lights Last?
UV lights run constantly and usually last nine to 14 months. Routine HVAC maintenance (once in the spring for your air conditioner and again in the fall for your furnace) is the perfect time to have these bulbs looked at and swapped out when necessary.
Schedule UV Light Installation
Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning features a range of air quality solutions, including UV lights for HVAC systems. We would be delighted to assess your home and your family’s needs to advise the equipment that will work best for you. Rest assured that all work we complete is backed by a one-year 100% satisfaction guarantee. Reach out to your local Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning office to schedule UV light installation or request a free home health consultation today.