Ultraviolet light has been proven very effective when used as part of your HVAC system to purify the air in your home and increase your overall indoor air quality. It is effective in removing mold and bacteria, reducing cold and flu germs, and keeping your family healthier. It also helps reduce smells and odors and removes volatile organic compounds from your indoor air. UV technology, which effectively treated tuberculosis, is being harnessed and used in many settings – including hospitals, restaurants and residential homes.
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Several studies in different settings have verified the effectiveness of UV light in killing mold and bacteria, including one in a hospital and another in a commercial HVAC system. In 2012, Duke University Medical Center used ultraviolet radiation to practically eliminate drug-resistant bacteria from 50 hospital rooms, eradicating the bacteria by more than 97 percent. Another study conducted over four months at a commercial office building, was found to significantly lower fungal levels.
2 Kinds of UV Lights for HVAC Systems
There are two types of UV lights made for HVAC units.
- Coil sterilization involves a stick-type of light inside the return air duct that works to sterilize the coil. It runs continually and is the most commonly used UV light. Dirty coils can produce what is known in the industry as “dirty sock syndrome” – a musty smell in the house that you just cannot tell where it comes from. A UV light will combat this musty odor.
- Air sterilization is a complete UV light unit that sterilizes moving air. It is installed in the return air duct but cycles with the air-handler blower.
While installing UV lights in your HVAC system is effective in killing a wide array of unsavory materials that can make your family sick by polluting your home’s indoor air quality, you must first have professionals implement an indoor air quality evaluation to mitigate existing problems. This involves several steps related to your ducts and installing proper filters.
Related Read: Is Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality Bad For Your Health?
The next step involves installing the UV light in the HVAC system. To enjoy the benefits of UV light, the system has to be maintained regularly by experienced professionals.
Amazingly, the cost of UV lights can be as little as $100 a year, which includes replacement bulbs. They must be replaced yearly and draw very little electricity, making the annual cost quite minimal.
The future of overhead UV lights in hospitals, public settings and residential homes could prevent the spread of dangerous, and sometimes deadly, flu viruses.
Contact our heating professionals at Home Comfort Experts today to learn about our indoor air quality services. We offer an Ultraviolet Air Disinfection System to keep the air in your home clean. We serve Northern Indiana and Southwestern Michigan from our 12 locations. Give us a call at (574) 255-4600 to learn about our full complement of heating, cooling and plumbing services.