There have been plenty of exciting advances in HVAC technology in recent years. And if you’re looking to upgrade your HVAC system in Warner Robins, GA, you may want to know about UV light air purification. Here’s what you need to know about this groundbreaking technology.
What’s UV Light?
UV light stands for ultraviolet light. Ultraviolet light is one of three main types of light — the other two are visible light and infrared light. You can see visual light but not feel it. You can feel infrared light as heat, but you can’t see it. You can’t see or feel UV light, but it can cause damage — it’s UV light from the sun that causes sunburn.
There are three types of UV light. They include the following:
- UV-A: This common form makes up most of the sun’s radiation.
- UV-B: This form is the one most responsible for sunburns.
- UV-C: This form is powerful enough to destroy certain microorganisms.
The atmosphere blocks most UV-C light before it reaches Earth’s surface. This is a good thing, as large amounts of UV-C can be harmful to humans and animals. However, when professionals use it carefully, it’s a very effective way to purify the air.
If you think that this might be something you’d like to add to your HVAC system, our professionals would be happy to help. Ask us at your next maintenance visit!
How Does UV Light Purify Air?
Usually, this type of purifier integrates into an HVAC system that includes both air movement and some type of air filter. As air passes through the system, the UV light hits it. UV-C light has an incredible amount of energy, and when harmful microorganisms pass by, the light damages their DNA and prevents them from multiplying.
UV-C radiation destroys harmful living organisms like bacteria, but according to the FDA, it also destroys non-living viruses.
The ability to destroy viruses is especially important. Viral particles are extremely small, and many of them slip through even high-quality air filters. Since UV light targets harmful particles regardless of size, it’s a great choice if you’re concerned about removing viral particles from your air.
How Do You Use UV Light Purification?
Sometimes, you may see a stand-alone UV light air purifier. More often, though, these purifiers are part of a complete HVAC system.
A stand-alone UV light purification system doesn’t have a way to trap particles in the air. When you use one along with an HVAC system with a filter, the UV light kills harmful particles while the filter traps them.
In many cases, UV light air purification happens in air ducts in order to prevent homeowners from being directly exposed to it. Your HVAC professional can assess your home’s current HVAC system and help you determine whether using UV light purification in air ducts is right for you.
You may be familiar with small, portable UV light air purifiers. While it may seem like an inexpensive and easy solution to purchase one, it’s important to understand that a purification system needs to deliver a large dose of UV-C to properly clean your air.
Most smaller, direct-to-consumer purification units don’t deliver a large enough dose of UV-C. To make sure your system functions well, be sure to only purchase your system from a trusted HVAC professional.
Are There Any Dangers?
The process of UV light purification is largely very safe, especially if a qualified HVAC professional installs your system. This purification process does release ozone, although it often isn’t enough to cause any problems.
As a precaution, many manufacturers now coat UV bulbs with a special protectant. This type of coating protects people and animals from harmful ozone.
If you’re looking to improve your home’s indoor air quality, UV light air purification might be an answer. If you want to talk about this or any other indoor air quality solutions, call us at Pruett Air Conditioning. We’re happy to help!
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