There's a well-known saying that states, "Out of sight, out of mind." And when it comes to your indoor air, this is probably right on the money. After all, if you can't truly "see" your indoor air, are you even thinking about it? Turns out if you're not, you should be.
Here's why.
You're probably aware of common indoor pollutants such as dirt, dust, pollen, and animal dander. But your home may also carry other microscopic organisms you can't see鈥攊ncluding mold, bacteria, fungi, and viruses. These contaminants may raise your risk of respiratory trouble and other illnesses, ranging from the common cold to respiratory infections and the flu.
According to research from the , germicidal ultraviolet (UV) light installation may fight these microscopic organisms and is one way to ensure that your indoor air is fresher and cleaner 24/7.
Understanding Germicidal UV Lights: What Are They?
So, what exactly is germicidal UV light? Simply put, they are UV light devices that may improve the air quality inside your home. These specialized lamps are installed directly into your HVAC system and emit ultraviolet light that claims to kill or neutralize harmful contaminants.
How do germicidal UV lights/lamps work?
- Similar to how the sun's UV rays sanitize outdoor air, UV lights mimic natural sunlight and sanitize the indoor air.
- They target mold spores, viruses, and bacteria and kill them before they enter the HVAC system.
- They work around the clock to ensure cleaner air.
Are UV lights important for indoor air quality?
According to the , they may destroy biological pollutants and help boost indoor air quality. As you may know, poor indoor air quality can lead to a variety of health issues, including:
- The spread of germs from the flu and seasonal colds
- Increased allergy and asthma symptoms
- Long-term respiratory problems
Installing a germicidal UV light device in your HVAC system claims to zap airborne pathogens, viruses, mold spores, and bacteria from entering your family's indoor air. By stopping these nasty contaminants from entering your home's air stream you may:
- Reduce illnesses
- Stop the spread of germs
- Help prevent mold growth
- Boost overall comfort and breathe fresher, cleaner air
Should I invest in germicidal UV light?
You may be wondering if you need UV light in your HVAC system. Adding UV lights to your home HVAC system is certainly a personal preference, but you may benefit from a UV light system if...
- You have allergy or asthma sufferers in your home
- You are often sick from common colds or respiratory illness
- You have visible mold or stale odors around vents
- You wish to reduce odors caused by VOCs (volatile organic compounds)
- Your home is prone to moisture buildup
How are they installed in my HVAC system and how do they work?
A trained HVAC professional installs germicidal UV light systems into your HVAC system. Here is a step-by-step process of what typically happens and how germicidal UV light works:
- A small hole is cut near the air handler.
- The UV lamp is mounted inside so air passes directly through the light.
- The UV light sanitizes the air.
- The system runs continuously and sanitizes the air before it circulates.
Note: Bulbs are needed and should be checked each year during maintenance.
Will they filter out dander, pollen, and dust, too?
No. UV lights will not filter out dander, pollen, and dust. You should still rely on air filters for this protection (and change them every three months). The main job of UV lights is to zap mold spores, fungi, and other viruses lurking inside your home.
Call ARS to Install Indoor Air Quality Systems
If you're concerned about mold or bacteria entering your home, ARS can help. Call us at 866-399-2885 to learn more about germicidal UV lights, and we'll answer your questions and recommend what is best for your home. While they're not a replacement for air filters, they may be a strong way to protect your family against mold growth, bacteria, and other fungi.
