How Does Germicidal UV Light Work?

September 8, 2020
kid and father looking at elctronic device

You probably know that the sun’s ultraviolet light (UV) is to blame for your painful sunburn. But did you know that another variety of ultraviolet light can be used to keep your residence’s air clean?

The sun lets off two types of harmful UV rays, UVA and UVB. These damaging rays can lead to sunburn, skin cancer, wrinkles and other signs of premature aging.

There’s another concentration of UV light, called UVC. While direct exposure to this ultraviolet light isn’t good for your skin or eyes, it can safely be used to disinfect air, water and certain surfaces.

Winters Heating and Cooling uses this light in several of our products to improve air filtration in Franklin & South Indy homes.

How Ultraviolet Light is Used

This distinct wavelength is classified as “germicidal” because it destroys the DNA of bacteria and viruses. When pathogens move through this light, they eventually die because they can’t spread.

This makes UVC light a mighty replacement to chemical disinfection. Germicidal light is used in lots of disinfection applications, such as medical laboratories and hospitals. It’s also applied to sterilize drinking water and other liquids created in food processing.

It’s becoming more popular to freshen air in residences in Franklin & South Indy. That’s because it can also wipe out common indoor contaminants including mold, mildew and bacteria. This is an added advantage for loved ones who deal with seasonal allergies or asthma.

Uses for Germicidal UV Light in Your Home

We install a germicidal UV light inside your HVAC system’s ductwork. As the light is placed inside the ductwork, it makes it compatible with most heating and cooling equipment. This also keeps its rays carefully contained while delivering powerful purification for your residence’s air.

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

This whole-house solution is greater than a portable air purifier, which can only clean the air in a lone area. Portable air purifiers also can’t purify your ductwork or the interior of your HVAC equipment. A clean HVAC system is usually a more efficient one that could even run longer. And, some portable air purifiers are known for producing ozone.

When thinking over getting a germicidal lamp for your home, it’s critical to buy one that doesn’t create ozone. While ozone is great at eradicating odors and chemicals, it might also irritate your lungs and cause other respiratory symptoms.

If you’re looking for methods to clean your home’s air, the indoor air quality professionals at Winters Heating and Cooling can help. We sell a large range of solutions to help your loved ones breathe easier. Contact us at 317-406-5382 to set up a free, no-obligation home comfort analysis and estimate right away!