When it comes to indoor air quality, a UV light air filter is one of the most effective tools to eliminate harmful bacteria and microbes. These are filters that use ultraviolet light to eliminate viruses and bacteria. Installed within the ductwork of your home, they can help protect the health and improve the comfort of those living in your household. Below are some of the most common questions about these useful additions to your home.

How UV Light Air Filters Protect Indoor Air Quality

What is UV radiation?

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is electromagnetic radiation that rests just outside the visible spectrum for humans. It’s present in a number of natural and human-made sources, most notably in sunlight. There are three basic types of UV light:

• UV-A is the type that tans the skin and can cause wrinkles.
• UV-B reddens and burns skin and can cause illness in excessive doses.
• UV-C is shortwave radiation which can be used to kill germs.

How do UV light air filters work?

There are two basic types of UV filters: coil sterilization and air sterilization. An air sterilization system in the ducting can be installed at either the supply or return end of the system. As air passes through, the light will eliminate much of the mold, bacteria, spores, fungi, and viruses contained in it.

Coil sterilization targets the areas in an HVAC system where contaminants are likely to gather, such as condensing coils, air filters, and condensation pans. It works by blanketing microbial hotspots in sterilizing UV rays which can slow or stop the process of reproduction, protecting indoor air quality at the source.

Are they safe?

While direct exposure to large amounts of UV light can be a risk to humans, the harmful types are UV-A and UV-B. UV-C, however, is too weak to penetrate human skin and is unlikely to be strong enough to induce illness.

In fact, it’s even been proposed as an alternative method of disinfection for humans. In addition, any UV rays which are present will be contained safely within HVAC ducting and equipment, preventing exposure to humans or pets.

Should I be concerned about viruses and bacteria in my HVAC?

Microbial growth is common to all HVAC systems, regardless of general cleanliness or air quality. An increasingly common phenomenon these days is “sick building syndrome,” in which contaminants and microorganisms are constantly recirculated, infecting occupants over and over.

While the cause of this is unknown, what’s certain is that reliable decontamination, such as that provided by UV light filters, can stop sickness and allergic reactions at the source by eliminating the organisms that cause them.

 

If you’re interested in protecting and enhancing your indoor air quality with an effective UV light air filtration system, turn to Steve Hester & Sons in Ward, AR. This team of HVAC technicians offers the benefit of 72 years of combined experience to maintain and service residential  electrical and HVAC systems. To learn more, visit them online, or call (501) 941-5119.