Try UV Lights to Reduce Bacteria and other Microorganisms in Your Home

Bacteria are among the many hazardous contaminants in your home’s air. Other microorganisms, including viruses and mold spores, also can trigger or exacerbate breathing problems, allergies and other health issues. Ultraviolet (UV) light filtration is a good way to attack these unwanted airborne germs. UV lights can be installed in your ductwork or positioned to shine directly on A/C or heat pump components.

What UV Lighting Has to Offer

Unlike standard media filters and purifiers or cleaners that simply trap airborne particulates of certain sizes, UV lighting can eliminate them altogether. When light from the UV spectrum comes in contact with microorganisms, it breaks down their DNA, eventually killing them. This technology is so effective that it’s used in hospitals, labs and food-processing factories where only the safest environments are acceptable.

There are two main benefits that you can get from UV lighting: improved indoor air quality (IAQ) and more efficient HVAC performance. UV lights can be installed in your ducts to eliminate microorganisms in your home’s conditioned air, as the HVAC system repeatedly cycles the air through the system. Hire a qualified HVAC professional to install them if you want the best results. These lights can also be installed to shine on indoor A/C and heat pump coils and/or the condensate pan, damp, dark places where bacteria and mold find a welcoming environment. The UV lights will destroy any mold or bacteria growth and prevent any new growth from occurring.

Maintaining Your Lights

While you may need to hire a professional for the installation, maintaining UV lights is relatively simple. The bulbs simply need to be replaced every one or two years. As UV lights age, their effectiveness declines, even before they reach their maximum lifespan of two years.

If you are trying to improve your IAQ as much as possible with UV light filtration in your ductwork, replace the bulbs once a year. When simply keeping your coils clean, UV light systems generally will do a good job until the two-year mark, which is when they should be replaced.

For expert assistance installing UV lights in your South Florida home, contact NisAir Air Conditioning & Heating.