The latest development in the HVAC systems is the addition of UV lights. In recent times, there has been an increase in the use of UV light technology. Gone is the time when all types of UV light were thought to be dangerous. That was a myth. The fact is that only a certain specific spectrum of UV or ultraviolet light is harmful to humans. The harmful band is what is commonly referred to as the UVA and UVB rays. As against this, it has been found through studies that continuous exposure to low doses of UVC light does no harm to humans but is deadly for some airborne and disease-causing viruses and bacteria. As a result, the increasing use of UV light technology in newer models of devices and appliances.
How Is UV Light Mounted In An HVAC System?
UV lights are usually mounted inside the HVAC unit in the form of tube lights. It is mounted in such a manner that the light shines on the coils of the HVAC unit.
Benefits Of UV Light Technology In An HVAC System
1. Enhanced Airflow – Airflow is an important factor that helps keep your home cool or warm. When the air circulates sluggishly, it is unable to maintain the desired temperature inside your home. The HVAC unit works hard, and yet it fails in providing comfort. Often the flow of air gets restricted due to the build-up of mold, microbes, bacteria, and other micro-organisms on the coils, air filters, drip pan, etc. UV light deters the growth of contaminants like these and keeps the flow of air smooth.
2. Enhanced Energy Efficiency – The various microbial and organic buildups inside the HVAC system put it under tremendous strain. When that happens, the unit has to work harder to deliver the same output as before. In short, its energy efficiency decreases, and the unit starts consuming more power to do the same amount of work. The UV light prevents the buildup of particles and matter that forces the HVAC unit to operate under pressure. As a result, it operates at optimum efficiency and keeps your utility bills as low as possible.
3. Helps In Disease Prevention – Viruses, bacteria, and mold are not good for human health. They give rise to a variety of health issues like flu, asthma, skin problems, etc. The UV light mounted inside the HVAC unit goes a long way in keeping the air inside your home healthy by not allow these toxins and microbes to grow and thrive. Prolonged exposure to UV light kills not just these micro-organisms and pathogens, but also volatile organic compounds when the air that carries them passes over the coils. Moreover, the UV light does not allow mold to grow in the drip pan, and hence, its colonies cannot grow and spread harmful spores into the air. In fact, UV light technology has been used in the air heating and cooling systems since the middle of the 1990s. It’s just that at that time, the myths surrounding it were so many that homeowners were skeptical about it.
4. Eliminates Odor – Odor emanates from a home where the air is not pure but laden with harmful particles like bacteria, mold spores, and such. Since the UV light prevents the growth and multiplication of these allergens, it automatically removes the source of any odors. The strongest odors are created by the volatile organic compounds, so much so that you may even feel like pinching your nose shut. Sometimes these odors can also cause headaches and nausea. One significant benefit of UV light technology is that it eliminates VOCs from the ventilation system. In short, bad smells will have no place in your home anymore.
5. Cost-Effective – As you have read above, UV light improves the airflow, makes the unit more energy-efficient, and also keeps the air inside your home healthy and hygienic. From this, one can easily draw the inference that a unit that works with optimum efficiency will automatically have lesser faults and problems. The addition of UV light also helps to keep the unit clean. Overall, these qualities of the UV light make for a cost-effective AC installation.
Effectiveness Of UV Light Technology
Now that we know about the benefits of UV light technology in an HVAC system, you would automatically want to know how effective it really is. Several factors play a determining role in the effectiveness of this technology. These factors include –
1. Number of UV lamps,
2.The intensity of the lamps,
3. Where they are placed,
4. Where the light is directed,
5. How reflective are the surrounding surfaces,
6. The temperature inside the home,
7. Humidity levels in the home.
Before installing the UV light in your HVAC system, you need to get your home conditions evaluated by a trained expert to find the answers to the above points. You may have to make a few small changes inside your home you make it more conducive to UV light installation. Once all the requirements are met to the satisfaction of the evaluator, you can move ahead with its actual installation. It will be worth every penny spent considering the benefits that it renders.
Protect Your Family With UV Light Technology
The benefits of UV light technology in an HVAC system have already been enumerated. Clearly, this technology has evolved so much that it makes the air inside your home pure and healthy for everyone to breathe. In times, when pollution is high, your home is the only place where you can breathe easily without any concerns. UV light guarantees this safety and helps you protect your family.
In The End
The UV light kills viruses, bacteria, germs, and pathogens. It also eliminates bad odors and reduces heating and cooling costs. Adding to it is the fact that it keeps the maintenance costs at a minimum. However, you can only enjoy all these benefits to the maximum if you first get your home conditions inspected and evaluated by an expert. Their expertise will tell you how many UV lamps your HVAC unit will require and their intensity. There are experts waiting to assist you in making the right decisions. Use their knowledge to your advantage.
