What are UV Lights?
Did you know there are UV air-purifying systems silently working behind the scenes in the HVAC systems of many Atlanta homes and businesses? And even the most discerning noses can’t detect them, unless they’re just noticing clean air, and relief to their lungs!
That’s because, unlike air fresheners that claim to kill air-borne bacteria, but kill off your sense of smell while they’re at it, these systems use UV (ultraviolet) light and are 100 percent chemical-free!
Seem high-tech? UV lights were first discovered in the late 1800s and innovators in science, food, and medicine have been perfecting them ever since. They’ve been used to treat disease, purify water, kill surface germs, sterilize operating rooms and equipment, and even (this one might surprise you) cure nail polish more quickly in your local nail salon. UV lights are also commonly found in bug zappers, tanning beds, and dental equipment.
How Do UV Lights Work?
UV lights emit invisible rays that destroy the molecular structures of common airborne organisms that affect air quality and respiratory health, rendering them harmless. And they do it all before they travel through your air ducts and into your home. Doesn’t that sound great?
We install UV lights to purify the air in your home. Temperature changes and moisture create the perfect environment for the development of bacteria. This is especially the case for the germs that like to grow in the dark crevices of HVAC systems and then circulate through your home, making you and your family sick. UV lights are ideally installed right where this occurs.
Are UV Lights Safe?
Though over-exposure to just about anything could be harmful (our exceptional customer service excluded), we’re not too worried about UV lights. Did you know they’re not just for HVAC systems? UV lights are used to protect things we come in contact with every day. The food industry zaps meat and produce to prevent spoilage, and hotel and hospital cleaning staff use them to sterilize rooms between guests.
But the best part is, the UV lights we install aren’t near you or your family. We mount them inside your ductwork or heating and cooling systems, which are usually tucked away in a closet, basement, or attic. This is a win-win because we’ve found that this is actually where they are the most effective!
Though you’ll typically see a small operating light, so you’ll know your UV light is working, you won’t see the actual light itself for one of two reasons:
- While part of the UV light fixture is often visible, the bulb itself is usually installed in the dark recesses of your ductwork, plenums, or coils – where it works best.
- Any colored light that you can see emitting from a UV bulb is not the microbe-killing ultraviolet kind, because that is actually invisible!
You don’t have to worry about accidental overexposure to a small child or pet who is fascinated by the light and stares at it. No one but you even knows it’s there.
We Supply, Install, and Service UV Air Purifying Systems
We install new UV lights and service existing ones. As part of any air-conditioner or furnace inspection, tune-up, or repair, we can check to see if you have UV lights, if they work, and if they’re installed in the most effective location.
Taking care of UV bulb replacement is something we do all the time so we’re not daunted by finding, or installing, them in hard-to-reach places in your basement or attic, because we know right where to look. We show up at your house with all the tools and equipment for accessing your HVAC ducting systems or coil cabinets, where UV lights are typically placed.
How Long Do UV Lights Last?
While a UV light fixture can last indefinitely, the bulbs typically need to be changed out once a year. So, if you haven’t thought about your UV light in a while (or didn’t know you had one), chances are it’s no longer doing its job. If you noticed a decrease in air-quality but couldn’t put a finger on what it was exactly, this might be your explanation.
Can I Replace My Own UV Light Bulbs?
Sure, we think so! But if you happen to check your UV lights, keep the following in mind:
- Never look directly at a UV light. Shield your eyes or wear protective eye gear.
- Avoid touching UV bulbs with bare hands because natural oils from your skin can diminish light quality.
- And, be sure to reseal any ductwork or access panels to prevent future energy loss.
But you don’t have to worry about adding another DIY project to your “someday” list! We carry a supply of UV light fixtures and replacement bulbs on our fully-stocked service vans so we can take care of anything you need during your service call.
When Can I Schedule?
Interested in installing UV lighting in your heating or cooling system? Click “Schedule Now” for more information or give us a call at 770-367-6937. We can send out one of our licensed HVAC technicians whenever you’re ready!
