How Germicidal UV Light Works

September 08, 2020

Perhaps you realize that the sun’s ultraviolet light (UV) results in painful sunburn. But did you know that another kind of ultraviolet light can be used to keep your house’s air clean?

The sun emits two types of damaging UV rays, UVA and UVB. These dangerous rays can result in sunburn, skin cancer, wrinkles and other kinds of premature aging.

There’s another type of UV light, known as UVC. While direct exposure to this ultraviolet light is bad for your skin or eyes, it can safely be used to clean air, water and some surfaces.

Tri City Fuel & Heating Co., Inc. uses this light in some of our systems to better air filtration in West Columbia homes.

What is an Ultraviolet Light Used For?

This precise wavelength is referred to as “germicidal” as it eradicates the DNA of bacteria and viruses. When pathogens pass through this light, they eventually perish as they can’t reproduce.

This makes UVC light a mighty substitute to chemical disinfection. Germicidal light is applied in many disinfection applications, such as medical laboratories and hospitals. It’s also employed to sterilize drinking water and other liquids produced in food processing.

It’s growing in popularity to disinfect air in residences in West Columbia. That’s due to the fact it can also eradicate typical indoor contaminants like mold, mildew and bacteria. This is an additional benefit for loved ones who deal with seasonal allergies or asthma.

How to Use Germicidal UV Light in Your Residence

We put a germicidal UV light within your HVAC system’s ductwork. Since the light is installed inside the ductwork, it makes it compatible with most heating and cooling systems. This also keeps its light securely contained while delivering great cleaning for your residence’s air.

Contaminated air is freshened in a two-step process, first flowing through your air filter and then the UV light in advance of moving around your home. Even when your heat or air conditioning isn’t operating, these lights still work to keep your air, ductwork and home comfort equipment clean.

This whole-house solution is superior to a portable air purifier, which can only clean the air in a lone room. Portable air purifiers also can’t clean your ductwork or the inside of your HVAC system. A clean HVAC system is usually a more efficient one that may even run for an extended period of time. And, the majority of portable air purifiers have a bad reputation for creating ozone.

When thinking over getting a germicidal lamp for your home, it’s important to select one that doesn’t produce ozone. While ozone is good at eliminating odors and chemicals, it could also irritate your lungs and lead to other respiratory troubles.

If you’re seeking approaches to purify your home’s air, the indoor air quality pros at Tri City Fuel & Heating Co., Inc. can help. We sell a large range of options to help your loved ones breathe easier. Contact us at 803-265-4208 to request a free, no-obligation home comfort analysis and estimate today!