When your HVAC system is operating, it behaves as a catalyst to recirculate air throughout the home. This air will contain contaminants and allergens such as dust, pet dander, gasses, mold, and pollen. There may also be viruses and bacteria present in the air, which can cause illness. Unfortunately, merely covering your mouth when coughing and washing your hands is not sufficient to remain healthy, particularly if members of your family are sick. When you are breathing air contaminated with bacterial pneumonia or flu and flu viruses, the chances of infection are dramatically increased.
UV to Prevent Germs From Spreading:
One of the most effective ways to prevent germs from spreading is UV. UV energy from the sun and ionization are how the air is cleaned in nature. UV light has been used as a method to disinfect water, air and surfaces for decades. The benefits of UV energy can be applied to cleaning hospitals, nursing homes, labs, office buildings and even residences.
UV germicidal lamps or biocide chambers can be installed into central HVAC systems to prevent the spread of germs. A biocide chamber can eliminate germs that HEPA or traditional air filtration methods cannot. There are microorganisms including the cold and flu viruses that are too small to be captured by these filtration methods. Fortunately, at the right wavelength, ultraviolet energy can be lethal to any size of bacteria, virus or mold spores.
How UV Kills Germs:
As microorganisms are passed by the light, they are exposed to the UV energy created by the lamp. This compromises the genetic structure of the organism. This means that the microorganism’s genetic material is deconstructed, and the organism is unable to reproduce. This effectively renders it harmless.
The Benefits of UV:
When a UV germicidal lamp has been properly installed into your HVAC system, indoor air quality is improved and is considerably healthier. UV technology is an effective and safe non chemical method of air purification. UV lamps require very little maintenance after initial installation. Another attractive benefit is that unlike many other sanitary methods, microorganisms and pathogens cannot develop a resistance to UV light. This means that UV light will continue to be an effective way to sterilize the air within your home.
Although UV lamps are an effective method of eliminating germs and bacteria from the air, it is still important that your HVAC system also has an appropriate air filter. Air filters are vital for trapping larger particles such as pet hair, dust or dirt that can also compromise air quality. By teaming an appropriate filter and UV lamp, you can eliminate debris particulate and bacteria from your air. Your filters will need to be cleaned or replaced every four to eight weeks, but this is a simple procedure that will be detailed in the owner’s manual for your particular system. This combination of UV and filtration will ensure that the air inside your home is safe for the whole family, minimizing the risk of allergies being triggered or asthma symptoms being exacerbated.