What is UV Light?
Ultraviolet light, also known as UV light, is a part of the electromagnetic spectrum. There are several types of UV frequencies.
UVA and UVB frequencies are present in sunlight. These are the frequencies that cause sunburn.
UV-C light is a higher frequency light. The ozone blocks UVC light, so it is weak at the Earth’s surface. Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, or UVGI, is a method that kills microorganisms using UVC light.
How Does UVC Light Work?
Photons emitted from the bulbs of the UVC Lights penetrate the cells of microbes, and altar organisms so they’re unable to reproduce. When applied and proper dosages, ultraviolet irradiation effectively kills viruses, bacteria, mold, allergens.
As a general rule of thumb, surface disinfection requires less intensity because you are irradiating a fixed surface.
Air disinfection requires a higher intensity per square foot because the air is moving much faster. It is important to have an expert measure your system for proper dosage and disinfection.
Benefits of Using UVC in HVAC Systems
// Improved Indoor Air Quality & Building Health
There are many benefits to using UVC lights in your HVAC system. Properly sized lights can eliminate viruses, mold, bacteria, and other contaminants, turning your HVAC system into a 
disinfection machine.
// Increase HVAC Efficiency
Without UVC lights in place, coils can become clogged and insulated with a matrix of dirt, bacteria, mold, and viruses called biofilm. A biofilm of only .002″ can reduce efficiency by 37%. So, your equipment has to work harder, wasting energy and hurting your bottom line. UVC lights reduce this microbial growth, increasing system efficiency.
// Reduce Maintenance
UVC lights can reduce your maintenance costs by keeping your HVAC coils clean eliminating the need for routine coil cleaning. Case studies show that coils treated with UVGI had an increased pressure drop compared to coils that were manually cleaned. Chemically cleaned coils may appear to clean, but may actually be a hotbed for microbial growth.
Coils are Interested to learn more? Check out our mini-webinar on using UVC lights for health and system performance.
How Much Does it Cost to Install UV Lights in HVAC Systems?
UV light can be installed in air handling units, ducts, fan coils, and even be used for in-room disinfection. Because the lights eliminate and prevent microbial growth on coils, the system runs more efficiently. These energy savings can result in a payback period of about a year.
Since all projects are unique, the cost and system needed can vary. Complete the form below and receive a quote for UVC lights in your HVAC system today!
Infectious Disease Mitigation Analysis
Interested in seeing how HVAC infectious disease control strategies stack up? Use our infectious disease calculator to evaluate: efficacy, upfront cost, and cost over time.
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