We all know that your HVAC system is an important part of maintaining a healthy and comfortable home for you and your family. We’ve also talked a lot about some of the things you can do to ensure your system is operating effectively and efficiently all year long. So for this month’s topic we’re going to instead focus on UV lighting, including the benefits of adding this powerful air quality technology to your current system.
Due to the Covid-19 outbreak, most of us are aware of the cleaning capabilities of UV light as well as its ability to destroy germs and bacteria, including those similar to the Covid-19 strain. Though this is certainly a powerful reason to consider utilizing that technology in your home, there are many other ways in which UV lighting technology can improve your home and HVAC health.
For one thing, germs such as viruses and bacteria are not the only things that can make us sick. Many of us suffer from seasonal and indoor/outdoor allergies of one kind or another. Unfortunately, those allergens can, and often do, stick around for some time, which means they frequently make their way back into your HVAC system and ductwork through your return vent. From there, these pesky irritants will either settle down to bother you later or be redistributed throughout your home to perpetuate the cycle. But just like with germs and bacteria, UV lights may offer a solution.
Numerous studies have shown UV light to be highly effective at eliminating airborne allergens such as mold, mildew, pollen and fungi. When added to a home’s heating and air system, this technology can help eliminate these common contaminants from the air, meaning you and your family can all breathe just a bit easier.
Another benefit of UV lighting is that it can also help maintain your system. Due to the centralized nature of your HVAC system, your unit will pass all the air it takes in over an evaporator coil as it circulates air throughout your home. This means that many of the contaminants from your air often end up on that coil, which can lead to mold, mildew, fungus and other biological buildup. UV lights kill and eliminate many common household contaminants on contact, and are shown to prevent mold and other unwanted growth on surfaces with continued exposure.
Dirty coils lead to mechanical and airflow problems. But a UV light combined with routine maintenance will help you keep your coil clean, which means your system can function the way it was designed and last longer.
One final perk of adding a UV light to your HVAC system is elimination of odors. HVAC units can sometimes circulate odors and other airborne chemicals whenever they run. While some of these odors are simply irritating, many others can cause health concerns with repeated or prolonged exposure. While it is no substitution for proper ventilation, many UV lights also include filtration systems that can help eliminate these odors and leave you breathing safer.
Overall, adding a UV light to your home is a fantastic way to help improve your air quality and efficiency of your HVAC unit. There are a lot of options when it comes to UV lighting systems for your home, and that’s why AC Masters is here! We can help answer your questions and guide you through what would be the best fit for your home. If you’re interested in installing UV lighting to your HVAC system then give us a call (757) 847-5252!