While a clean HVAC air filter removes airborne particulates you can see, UV lights control the troublesome pathogens you can’t see. Common dust and dirt in your household air are large enough to be effectively trapped by your system air filter. However, invisible mold spores, viruses, and bacteria slip through the filter and continue reproducing in your interior environment. These living microorganisms are linked to increasing incidence of allergies and other physical symptoms.
UV lights produce invisible illumination in the ultraviolet spectrum. While exposure to this light is harmless to people, ultraviolet wavelengths neutralize airborne microorganisms by penetrating the DNA and disrupting reproduction. The germicidal principles of ultraviolet light have been used for over a century in medical facilities to disinfect surfaces and sterilize environments like operating rooms.
UV Technology
Consuming only about 25 watts of electricity, UV lights resemble small fluorescent tubes from 8 inches to as long as 16 inches. A single or twin-tube light fixture is typically installed, depending on the volume of system airflow. Most UV lights are installed at two points in the HVAC system:
Return Duct Installation
Mounted in the large system return duct, a UV light tube exposes airflow to germicidal light. A qualified HVAC contractor can install the ultraviolet tube inside the ductwork with only a single small access hole. A ductwork light may be wired to the blower motor so the tube illuminates only when air is circulating through the duct.
Air Handler Installation
Mounted inside the air handler, ultraviolet light tubes inhibit toxic mold and bacteria on the A/C evaporator coil. Because the coil is frequently wet from condensation, it’s a common target for growth of microorganisms which, in turn, release toxic reproductive spores into your system airflow—not to mention decreasing coil efficiency. A UV light array sterilizes coil surfaces and penetrates deep into coil passageways to neutralize mold and bacteria.
In the Wabash Valley, Paitson Bros. has helped homeowners maintain a comfortable and healthy indoor environment since 1922. Contact us for more about the indoor air quality benefits of UV lights.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Terre Haute, Indiana about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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Paitson Bros
1 (812) 232-2347
Serving the Wabash Valley, IN Area Since 1922