All You Need to Know About UV Light for HVAC Needs

You often hear about ultraviolet light when purchasing sunglasses or sunblock. More often than not, the advice is to use these products for enhanced protection against both UVA and UVB rays. These types of UV rays are quite dangerous when a person over-exposes themselves to them.

What you may not know is that there exists a third type of UV light called UVC. This is a special type of HVAC UV light that can be used to help purify the air in your home, thus protecting you from various pathogens, like the cold and flu.

Types of UV Lights

While you may not be able to see ultraviolet light due to its relatively short wavelength when compared to visible light, it still exists. There are different types of ultraviolet lights and here is a brief breakdown of them and their characteristics:

UV A Light

  • Wavelength of 320 to 400nm.
  • Comprises 90-95% of the UV radiation on Earth.
  • It is typically used for fluorescent inspections and to polymerize certain adhesives.
  • It is considered the safest of all types of UV light.

UV B Light

  • Wavelength of 280 to 320nm.
  • Comprises 5-10% of UV radiation on Earth.
  • It is what is responsible for sunburn and skin cancer.
  • In industries, it’s used to cure certain inks and lacquers.

UV C Light

  • UV C light has a Wavelength of 200 to 280nm.
  • It is eliminated in nature by the Earth’s atmosphere.
  • In industries, it is used to kill microbes for sterilization purposes.

UV Lights in HVAC Systems

Ultraviolet lights are used in various HVAC systems with the main purpose of improving and maintaining high indoor air quality. Here are some common ways UV lights are used in HVAC systems:

Germicidal UV Lights

UV-C light lamps that come in the 254 nanometer range are used to kill or disarm germs like bacteria, viruses, and mold spores. They shine a light on the coils of the cooling system, drain pans, and other surfaces to prevent the growth of biofilm and microbial contamination. this helps maintain cleaner air and reduce the risk of illnesses.

Control of Airborne Germs

UV C lights for HVAC systems are also used to disinfect the area as it passes through the HVAC unit. When installed in the return air duct or the air handler, they can help inactivate airborne pathogens, reducing the risk of spreading diseases.

Improving Indoor Air Quality

UV lights in residential HVAC systems can help improve indoor air quality by reducing allergens, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). They can break down these substances into less harmful byproducts, ensuring the home’s air quality is as clean as possible.

Energy Efficiency

The coil sanitizing lights also play a role in keeping the HVAC system as efficient as possible. When the air handler coil and the condenser coil are clean of microbial contamination and mold growth, they tend to transfer heat more efficiently, leading to lower energy costs.

Extended Equipment Life

UV lights can help prevent the buildup of organic material on HVAC components, which can lead to corrosion and reduced equipment lifespan. This can extend the life of your HVAC system and even reduce maintenance needs.

Reducing Maintenance Needs

With the UV light system installed, you may need to clean and maintain your HVAC system less often. This is because the germicidal UV light keeps contamination and microbial growth at bay. Thanks to these air sanitizing lights, your HVAC system will not be down as often for maintenance and you won’t have to pay those costs as often.

Odor Control

Another good reason for installing UV lights for HVAC systems is that they are great for eliminating unpleasant odors caused by organic matter, such as mold or bacteria, in the HVAC system.

Coil and Drain Pan Cleaning

A complete UV light unit has a set of coil sanitizing lights that will keep the coils and drain pans clean. This helps maintain efficiency while preserving the HVAC system in optimal condition.

What’s the Best HVAC UV Light for the Home?

The best type of UV purifier is one that contains UV C light. Having UV air purifiers as the perfect complement to air conditioning systems can help improve indoor air quality by neutralizing viruses and other microbes.

AC Repair and Upgrades with Air Pros

Our HVAC technicians at Air Pros can work with you to find the right solutions when it comes to your indoor air quality concerns. We recommend UV air purifiers for your HVAC units. Keep in mind that AC repairs are essential in making your air conditioner more reliable and energy-efficient.

To learn more about UV air purifiers and to schedule an appointment contact Air Pros USA today!

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