Most homeowners spend more time indoors as temperatures begin to drop and days get shorter in the winter. You’ve probably also noticed that the air in your home may not be as healthy and comfortable as you would like. Lack of ventilation and filtration, uncontrolled humidity, and a high prevalence of contaminants can compromise indoor air quality even more in winter than in other months. Cold and flu season is in full swing but fortunately, strategies exist to combat these issues. One of the most effective options available to modern homeowners is ultraviolet (UV) lighting.
Different Types of UV Light Technology
There are different types of UV light technology, including UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C. The type of technology that is used for air purification in the home is UV-C. It’s well known for its disinfecting properties. With wavelengths of 100 nanometers to 280 nanometers, UV-C light can disinfect air, surfaces, and liquids by damaging the cellular structures of microbes. Higher levels of nanometers could be dangerous to humans, making UV-C lights ideal for residential use.
The Role of UV Lights in Air Purification
UV lights target potentially harmful microorganisms that standard HVAC filters typically miss. These include various types of bacteria, mold spores, and even viruses. UV light disrupts them at the cellular level, effectively neutralizing them by attacking their reproductive capacity.
UV lights installed in household HVAC systems sterilize the air that passes through them, ensuring it is clean and safe as it recirculates back into your home interior. As a bonus, UV lights are chemical-free and safe for children and pets. Just make sure that you have a professional installation performed and have our team service them to minimize radiation risk.
Why Winter Indoor Air Quality is at Greater Risk
The main reason why indoor air quality deteriorates during winter is because homes are tightly sealed to keep cold air out and warm air inside. Common contaminants include pet dander, household dust, mold, mildew, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cleaning solutions, paints, new carpets, and furniture. Also, even though pollen is typically associated with spring and summer, certain species of trees pollinate during winter and early spring. The pollen from these trees can enter the home through small openings such as door gaps or clothing and shoes. Once inside, this pollen can be circulated throughout the home by your HVAC system.
If your HVAC unit isn’t properly maintained, moisture and warmth in the ducts can create an ideal breeding ground for a range of bacteria and other potential pathogens, including mold spores and mildew. Air purifiers that use filtration along with UV lights can capture and neutralize these contaminants before they can spread throughout your home.
How UV Lights Combat Winter Allergies and Illnesses
Poor indoor air quality and low humidity levels can exacerbate sinus and respiratory issues, particularly among young children, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems. UV lights protect against issues by destroying airborne pathogens and other irritants, minimizing the risk to household residents.
It’s likely that you will experience several colds, and the flu will spread around your residence in the winter. UV lights can be effective in reducing the spread of the airborne viruses that cause these illnesses. By treating the air circulating throughout your home, UV lights decrease the overall microbial load and help protect your family from contagious illnesses.
Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings With UV Lights
Although the main purpose of adding UV lights to your HVAC system is to improve the overall quality of your indoor air, these lights also contribute to your household’s energy efficiency. For instance, mold spores and biofilm can build up on your system’s coils, making your system work harder to do its job. UV lights prevent this by keeping the individual components of your HVAC unit clean, allowing it to function more efficiently.
Improved energy efficiency equates to cost savings on your monthly utility bill. A cleaner system uses less energy to do its job. Additionally, preventing microbial buildup not only decreases the need for frequent repairs, but it also has the potential to extend the overall lifespan of your HVAC system. This saves you money on repairs and replacements.
Installing UV Lights in Your Home
When it comes to effectively integrating UV light into your HVAC system, keep in mind that proper placement is essential for the best results. These lights are typically placed inside ductwork or next to the evaporator coil, where they can sterilize the air as it circulates. It’s recommended that you have a professional install UV light equipment to ensure correct positioning.
Properly installed UV lights only need minimal upkeep. Routine maintenance involves cleaning the bulbs and replacing them on an average of once per year. We will periodically inspect them for cracks or other signs of damage as well.
Using UV Lights With Other Indoor Air Quality Solutions
Although UV lights are effective on their own in promoting optimal indoor air quality, they work best when combined with other air quality control strategies. You can use whole-house air purification and air filtration equipment to remove up to 99.97% of the particulates in your indoor air. Additionally, maintaining proper household humidity levels using whole-house dehumidifiers and humidifiers during winter helps decrease the possibility of overly dry air contributing to respiratory issues.
Another key factor is ventilation. Opening windows for brief periods during winter can improve air exchange, particularly in homes with tightly sealed doors and windows. Using a mechanical ventilation system also helps remove stale air, improve airflow, and minimize indoor pollutants and excess moisture. Utilize your exhaust fans during the winter when you’re cooking or bathing to keep humidity levels under control and remove particulate matter.
Making the Decision to Install UV Lights
Choosing to include UV lights in your home’s HVAC system is an investment in your property as well as in your health. Although there is an initial expense involved in installation and equipment, the long-term savings on utility bills and health care costs make it a worthwhile decision. An HVAC professional from our team can assess your system and guide you toward the best UV light solution for your home and circumstances. There may be incentives or rebates that can help offset the initial cost of your UV lights.
Contact Bernard Heating & Cooling Today to Learn More
Bernard Heating & Cooling has been providing residents of Hudson, OH, and the surrounding communities with superior HVAC services for three decades. We provide you with a customized set of indoor air quality solutions including UV lighting, whole-house air purifiers, whole-house humidifiers and dehumidifiers, and periodic air quality testing to help you maintain healthy indoor air. Other services we provide include water heater repair, maintenance, and installation, refrigeration service, boiler assistance, the installation of heat pumps, and mini-split maintenance. Ask about how our yearly Maintenance Membership Plan can help you save money while enjoying a comfortable and safe home environment.
Call Bernard Heating & Cooling today or use our convenient online contact form to find out more about incorporating UV lighting into your Hudson home’s HVAC system.
