Do UV Lights Support Indoor Air Quality?

Ultraviolet (UV) lights are widely used in HVAC systems to disinfect the air. UV light can kill or inactivate bacteria, viruses, and other germs that are known to cause disease. It disrupts the cell walls of such microorganisms so they cannot reproduce and spread infection in the air. Additionally, HVAC systems containing special UV filters trap microorganisms effectively.

How UV Lights Keep Your Home’s Air Clean

UV lights in an HVAC system are a great way to purify the air in your home and prevent mold growth in your air ducts. These ultraviolet lights emit short-wavelength radiation. The light kills or disables fungi and bacteria as it passes through the system. This powerful technology helps to keep the air quality clean and healthy.

It simultaneously deactivates allergens like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. This reduces the risk of allergies, asthma, and other respiratory illnesses. A technician installs the UV filter directly inside the ductwork or near your furnace and air conditioner.

The Right Size and Type of UV Light

When buying a UV light for your HVAC system, ensure that you get the right size and type. Talk to an expert if you need advice or have questions about installation and safety procedures. The two main types of UV lights used in HVAC systems are UVC (ultraviolet C) and UVV (ultraviolet V).

Benefits of UVC vs. UVV

A form of light with a wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers with many uses in HVAC systems, UVC effectively controls indoor air pollutants, reducing the spread of harmful bacteria and viruses via the air. The UVC energy emitted from these HVAC systems helps break down organic components. It dilutes many bacteria, making it harder for harmful pathogens to survive. UVC offers many advantages over traditional HVAC filtration methods.

UVV light has a wavelength that spans from 395 to 455 nanometers. UVV can degrade chemicals, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are known to cause poor indoor air quality. This wavelength of light can also oxidize odors into inoffensive byproducts. Therefore, using a UV filtration system that combines UVC and UVV light can eliminate a full range of indoor air quality issues.

Other Benefits of Installing UV Lights

Using UV lights in HVAC systems increases the efficiency of the system. As germs, viruses, and other particles are killed off by the radiation emitted, their presence in the system is greatly reduced. Less energy is needed to regulate the temperature and circulate the air appropriately. The potential for increased efficiency of HVAC systems is often overlooked. UV radiation can sterilize coils, filters, and vents, thus reducing energy consumption.

UV lights prevent the accumulation of dust and other particles in an HVAC system. They also extend the system’s lifespan by reducing the wear and tear on its components. This can save you money because a well-maintained system will last longer and require fewer repairs. UV radiation is easy to install and low maintenance, so you don’t have to worry about constantly cleaning or replacing parts.

Mold growth can be a major concern for indoor air quality. UV lights effectively kill off mold spores that may have settled onto the surfaces of the HVAC system. This prevents the establishment of mold colonies that can lead to various health issues and costs for remediation.

By killing off germs, viruses, and other pollutants with UV lights, you can reduce the need to use chemical cleaners in your home or office. This benefits the environment and your health, as these products are often hazardous.

Contact Our HVAC Experts Today

HVAC systems are found in many buildings, providing sufficient cooling, heating, and ventilation. That’s why it’s important to ensure that your HVAC system runs at its best. Installing UV lights in HVAC systems is one of the best ways to ensure optimal performance with minimal maintenance.

If you want to learn more about UV lights and other ways to improve your indoor air quality, our team at Dugan Air Heating Cooling can help. We install UV lights, as well as air purifiers, humidifiers, and dehumidifiers. Our technicians also provide installation, repair, and maintenance for furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, and mini-split systems. We’re even available for emergency repair services throughout Franklin and the surrounding area. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.