You probably know that the sun’s ultraviolet light (UV) causes painful sunburn. But did you know that another variety of ultraviolet light can be useful for keeping your house’s air clean?
The sun gives off two types of damaging UV rays, UVA and UVB. These dangerous rays can cause sunburn, skin cancer, wrinkles and other signs of premature aging.
There’s another concentration of UV light, referred to as UVC. While full exposure to this ultraviolet light is bad for your skin or eyes, it can safely be utilized to purify air, water and certain surfaces.
Heartland Heating & Cooling uses this light in several of our solutions to boost air filtration in Des Moines homes.
What is an Ultraviolet Light Used For?
This distinct wavelength is classified as “germicidal” as it kills the DNA of bacteria and viruses. When pathogens travel through this light, they eventually cease to exist because they can’t multiply.
This makes UVC light a strong replacement to chemical disinfection. Germicidal light is applied in many disinfection procedures, like medical laboratories and hospitals. It’s also applied to clean drinking water and other liquids made in food processing.
It’s becoming a popular choice to disinfect air in homes in Des Moines. That’s due to the fact it can also eliminate frequent indoor contaminants such as mold, mildew and bacteria. This is an added benefit for loved ones who deal with seasonal allergies or asthma.
Uses for Germicidal UV Light in Your House
We put a germicidal UV light inside your HVAC system’s ductwork. Because the light is placed in the ductwork, it makes it compatible with most heating and cooling units. This also keeps its beams securely restricted while providing powerful purification for your house’s air.
Dirty air is cleaned in a two-step process, first traveling through your air filter and then the UV light before spreading across your residence. Even when your heat or air conditioning isn’t running, these lights still operate to keep your air, ductwork and home comfort unit clean.
This whole-house solution is greater than a portable air purifier, which is limited to cleaning the air in a lone space. Portable air purifiers also can’t purify your ductwork or the interior of your HVAC unit. A clean HVAC system is usually a more efficient one that may even work for a longer life span. And, some portable air purifiers are notorious for creating ozone.
When considering adding a germicidal lamp to your home, it’s important to select one that doesn’t produce ozone. While ozone is great at wiping out odors and chemicals, it might also irritate your lungs and cause other respiratory issues.
If you’re trying to find methods to purify your house’s air, the indoor air quality professionals at Heartland Heating & Cooling can help. We have a wide range of solutions to help your loved ones breathe better. Contact us at 515-344-3579 to schedule a free, no-obligation home comfort analysis and estimate now!