You likely are aware that the sun’s ultraviolet light (UV) is to blame for your painful sunburn. But were you aware that another kind of ultraviolet light can be useful for keeping your residence’s air clean?
The sun emits two types of damaging UV rays, UVA and UVB. These dangerous rays can cause sunburn, skin cancer, wrinkles and other signs of premature aging.
There’s another concentration of UV light, called UVC. While full exposure to this ultraviolet light is bad for your skin or eyes, it can safely be utilized to purify air, water and certain surfaces.
Precision Mechanical uses this light in some of our solutions to better air filtration in Rapid City residences.
What is an Ultraviolet Light Used For?
This precise wavelength is classified as “germicidal” because it destroys the DNA of bacteria and viruses. When pathogens move through this light, they eventually cease to exist as they can’t reproduce.
This makes UVC light a potent alternative to chemical disinfection. Germicidal light is employed in many disinfection uses, such as medical laboratories and hospitals. It’s also used to sterilize drinking water and other liquids produced in food processing.
It’s becoming more popular to freshen air in residences in Rapid City. That’s because it can also wipe out frequent indoor contaminants including mold, mildew and bacteria. This is an added benefit for loved ones who deal with seasonal allergies or asthma.
Having Germicidal UV Light in Your House
We put a germicidal UV light inside your HVAC system’s ductwork. Since the light is set inside the ductwork, it makes it compatible with many heating and cooling units. This also keeps its rays carefully restricted while providing great purification for your home’s air.
Dirty air is freshened in a two-step process, first moving through your air filter and then the UV light prior to flowing throughout your house. Even when your heat or air conditioning isn’t working, these lights still function to keep your air, ductwork and home comfort equipment clean.
This whole-house option is superior to a portable air purifier, which is limited to cleaning the air in a lone area. Portable air purifiers also can’t purify your ductwork or the inside of your HVAC unit. A clean HVAC system is often a more efficient one that may even run for an extended period of time. And, some portable air purifiers have a bad reputation for making ozone.
When thinking about getting a germicidal lamp for your residence, it’s important to choose one that doesn’t create ozone. While ozone is good at eliminating odors and chemicals, it might also irritate your lungs and create other respiratory symptoms.
If you’re trying to find ways to freshen your home’s air, the indoor air quality experts at Precision Mechanical can help. We have a large range of solutions to help your household breathe better. Contact us at 605-206-3766 to schedule a free, no-obligation home comfort analysis and estimate today!