Direct exposure to UV-C rays used in air conditioning systems can be dangerous, particularly for the skin and eyes. Eye damage can be considerable and sometimes permanent, so it's essential that it be handled and installed with care by a qualified technician. UV systems are effective at eliminating harmful bacteria, mold, etc., and can benefit your family in healthy ways. UVA and UVB rays cause skin cancer and sunburn, while the most powerful and germicidal UVC rays are blocked by the ozone layer.
They can kill microorganisms on the surface of an object by penetrating its cell walls and destroying both nucleic acid and DNA, effectively deactivating bacteria. If you're considering adding UV lights to your air conditioning system, there are only two types to choose from. You can extend the life of your system by keeping the coils and ducts clean with UV lights. HVAC UV lights don't remove dust or dandruff from the air circulation, so you may need to look into other solutions if this is your problem.
While it may seem like HVAC UV lights offer nothing but benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider before making the investment. In general, the UV lamps that your HVAC company is trying to sell you are probably a waste of money, and it would be much better to have the system repaired manually once a year. Among the lesser-known advantages of UV light for air conditioning, ventilation and air conditioning systems, they also help to keep the coils and the drain pan clean, reducing both wear and maintenance requirements. If you or your family suffer from allergies or respiratory problems, you should seriously consider installing a built-in UV air purifier.
Since UV lamps only really work to keep the drain pan and the coils free of mold and bacteria, let's compare the price of each of them to see what the best value for money is, especially since both do the same thing. As less mold and mildew circulates through the air conditioning system thanks to a UV light unit, drain pipes are also less likely to clog up, one of the most common air conditioning problems. UV bulbs work less effectively when they're covered in dust, so you'll have to clean them quite often to make sure this doesn't happen - about once every two months and possibly longer if you live in a particularly dusty place. UV lighting has a 99% effective rate at killing mold and bacteria if air passes through it slowly enough.
In reality, most bacteria, mold spores, and viruses in the air pass very easily through UV light without being affected at all. Installing a UV lamp for HVAC benefits everyone in your household, especially people with allergies and respiratory problems. For example, symptoms of black mold in an air conditioner include headaches that go away when you are outside, coughing, sneezing, skin rashes, nausea and fatigue - all of which can be prevented with a built-in UV air purifier. If you're thinking about adding a UV light unit to your HVAC system, make sure you consult with a qualified technician first.
They will be able to advise you on what type of unit is best for your home as well as how often it needs to be cleaned or replaced. Call Bartlett Heating and Air today to discuss what options are best for you.
