When you think of ultraviolet light, you probably picture getting sunburned after a few hours spent relaxing at the pool. However, UV light is also something you can use for improving indoor air quality. Sunscreen defends against UVA and UVB rays, but UVC is the type of light used in air purification. If you struggle with allergies or asthma or want to limit the spread of illnesses throughout your home, a UV light within the HVAC system could be the air quality solution you’ve been hoping for!
How Does a UV Light Operate?
The germicidal effects of ultraviolet light have been understood for more than a century. UVC rays were initially used to treat tuberculosis. These days, germicidal lamps are used in hospitals, food processing plants, water treatment plants and air purification equipment.
A UV lamp placed inside your HVAC system helps the air quality in your home by wiping out microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, mold and more. It usually needs 10 seconds of contact to deactivate these germs’ DNA, killing them or stopping them from replicating.
UV lights also combat volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used in cleaners and repellents on top of airborne bioaerosols like pollen and pet dander. Still, UV lights don’t physically 'trap' contaminants, so you still require an air filtration system to capture dust, fibers and other particles from your home's air supply.
How Effective Are UV Lights?
Assuming they are installed like they're supposed to and use the right wavelength of UV light, germicidal lamps are remarkably effective at enhancing indoor air quality. One study from Duke University illustrated that UV light eliminated more than 97 percent of drug-resistant bacteria from the air in hospital rooms. Another report noted “significantly lower” fungal levels in a commercial business' HVAC equipment after four months of applying a UV light.
Benefits of UV Lights
Place an ultraviolet lamp in your HVAC system to make the most of these benefits:
- Cleaner indoor air: UV light technology disinfects the air 24 hours a day without adding chemicals into the environment. As opposed to other air purifiers, ultraviolet lamps don’t create ozone, an infamous lung irritant that is very harmful to those with asthma, allergies or chronic lung illnesses.
- Decreased likelihood of getting sick: Alongside good personal hygiene, germ-killing UV lamps can minimize the risk of catching viral and bacterial infections.
- A layer of protection for your HVAC system: Mold, fungi and bacteria can gunk up your heating and cooling equipment. Keep the system working smoothly and efficiently with a hard-working UV light.
- Lower HVAC maintenance and repair costs: With an inherently cleaner central HVAC system, you enjoy simpler maintenance requirements and fewer emergency repairs. These savings can help counter the cost of utilizing a UV light and replacing the bulb.
Where Do UV Lights Get Installed?
If you choose an air-sanitizing UV light, your installer should position it within your ductwork near the HVAC system. There, the lamp affects the air before it spreads across your home.
If you would rather have a coil-sanitizing UV light, it will sit near the AC evaporator coil. There, it targets mold and bacteria that collect on the damp coil, keeping your system clean and operating smoothly.
Are UV Lights Safe?
The sun constantly produces invisible UV radiation. As you already know, UVA and UVB rays can burn your skin, so it’s essential to wear an effective sunscreen when hanging out 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 completely, so they don’t make it to the earth’s surface.
With the knowledge that UVC rays are harmful, why should you feel alright with installing a UVC light in your home? It’s simple—the light is limited to your ductwork where you never come in contact with it, so it creates no risk to you and your family. When the time comes to maintain the lamp or change the bulb, your HVAC technician will turn off the system briefly to prevent being exposed to the damaging light.
How Long Do UV Lights Last?
UV lights run constantly and generally last nine to 14 months. Yearly 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 changed out as required.
Schedule UV Light Installation
Midland Air Service Experts 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 suggest the products that will work best for you. Rest easy knowing that all work we complete is backed by a one-year 100% satisfaction guarantee. Reach out to your local Midland Air Service Experts office to schedule UV light installation or request a free home health consultation today.