How Germicidal UV Light Works

September 08, 2020

Perhaps you realize that the sun’s ultraviolet light (UV) is to blame for your painful sunburn. But were you aware that a different type of ultraviolet light can be used to keep your home’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 variety 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 applied to purify air, water and various surfaces.

Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co. uses this light in several of our products to boost air filtration in Haines City residences.

Applications for Ultraviolet Light

This specific wavelength is classified as “germicidal” as it kills the DNA of bacteria and viruses. When pathogens travel through this light, they eventually die since they can’t reproduce.

This makes UVC light a strong substitute to chemical disinfection. Germicidal light is applied in many disinfection uses, such as medical laboratories and hospitals. It’s also used to purify drinking water and other liquids made in food processing.

It’s becoming more popular to purify air in homes in Haines City. That’s due to the fact it can also eradicate frequent indoor contaminants including mold, mildew and bacteria. This is an extra advantage for loved ones who deal with seasonal allergies or asthma.

Installing Germicidal UV Light in Your Home

We put a germicidal UV light in your HVAC system’s ductwork. Since the light is installed inside the ductwork, it makes it compatible with the majority of heating and cooling systems. This also keeps its light safely restricted while providing powerful cleaning for your house’s air.

Contaminated air is purified in a two-step process, first traveling through your air filter and then the UV light before spreading across your home. Even when your heat or air conditioning isn’t operating, these lights still work to keep your air, ductwork and home comfort unit clean.

This whole-house solution is better than a portable air purifier, which is restricted to cleaning the air in one area. Portable air purifiers also can’t purify your ductwork or the innerworkings of your HVAC system. A clean HVAC system is typically a more efficient one that can even work longer. And, some portable air purifiers have a bad reputation for creating ozone.

When thinking about getting a germicidal lamp for your house, it’s critical to select one that doesn’t make ozone. While ozone is great at eradicating odors and chemicals, it could also irritate your lungs and create other respiratory issues.

If you’re seeking methods to freshen your home’s air, the indoor air quality specialists at Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co. can help. We sell a wide range of options to help your loved ones breathe more easily. Contact us at 863-216-2923 to schedule a free, no-obligation home comfort analysis and estimate right away!