Improving Air Quality
Updated: Apr 9, 2019
By Karly Dwenger
Since the beginning of the 19th century, Ultraviolet lights have been used in a variety of fields and products to sterilize, purify and kill off mold and bacteria. The newest trend for UV lights is installing them inside HVAC systems to improve air quality in homes. But does this work or is it just a ruse? And if so, what are the benefits and how does it work?
What some people may not realize is that mold and bacteria forming in their home HVAC system is a real concern, and it is an issue that shouldn't be ignored. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, contamination in HVAC units is often a contributor with diseases such as asthma, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and other general infections. UV lighting helps prevent these diseases and to improve the overall air quality. Ultraviolet light is a form of radiation, so when bacteria and other fungi is exposed to it for long periods of time, the light begins to break down the bacteria's DNA. Using UV lights in your unit can decrease bacteria buildup on air filters, cooling coils and the duct surfaces.
However, installing UV lights can be a waste of money if done incorrectly. It's important to hire a trusty HVAC company such as Air-Flow so you can ensure efficiency. Factors such as intensity, placement, direction and surrounding surfaces can have a direct effect on how UV lights work in a HVAC unit.
Along with keeping your family secure with better air quality, UV lights can also improve the efficiency by reducing maintenance costs and reducing your home's energy usage. UV lights work to restore the unit's performance to keep it working like new and to cut down on its power consumption. Ultimately this could save you 10-35% of your home's overall energy consumption.
If UV lights are not of interest for you and your home, it's still important to conduct simple procedures to keep your air quality at a healthy level. Another option is to call Air-Flow for a semi annual tune up of your unit to make sure everything is working soundly.