Install a UV Light as a supplement for your routine air duct cleaning to prevent Microbial Growth and Infectious Disease in Your Home or Office
Is your home or office really clean? When is the last time you had your air ducts cleaned? Did you know that installing a UV light as supplement to air duct cleaning can act as an additional layer of cleaning and sanitization?
Indoor air quality and maintaining a sanitized home, office and other shared spaces is more important than ever. Having your air ducts clean and sanitized is no exception. You may not be aware of routine air duct cleanings can also include a UV light installation as a means to further disinfect your air ducts, sanitize the air passing through them and prevent any sort of microbial growth from growing there. This ultimately means having a cleaner and healthier home or office and will ensure that your air ducts are free from mold, viruses like COVID-19, bacteria and other toxins by killing and disinfecting them, which can help in preventing illness, indoor allergies and other health-related issues.
How does it work?
When UV light is used for sanitizing purposes, it “deactivates” or kills microorganisms, including viruses, bacteria, molds and other fungi by disrupting their DNA. Some deactivate after microseconds of exposure while others require much longer exposure. However, the effectiveness of UV depends on a number of factors, including:
1. Intensity of lamp(s).
2. Length of time of exposure.
3. A virus, bacteria or mold’s ability to withstand UV.
4. The presence of particulate that may protect the organism from exposure by providing shadows or a shielding effect.
5. Increased humidity which may protect the organism.
6. Location of the UVC lamp(s).
7. Ambient temperature.
8. Number of lamps.
9. Reflectivity of surrounding surfaces.
Examples of types UV lights can be found here.
How long does it take to kill a virus, bacteria or microbial growth?
Approximately ten seconds depending on the strength and placement of the UV light.
Can I have this installed in my home? Office? School?
Yes, all of the above. These UV lights are ideal for any home, office, school or other facility looking to add an extra layer of protection and cleanliness to their HVAC systems and to ensure they have the healthiest air quality possible. There are instances of UV lights being used in other ways and situations. For example, the MTA in New York City is currently using a series of UV light devices each night to clean and sanitize the subway cars. Just a few minutes of UV light exposure in every subway car helps to eliminate any potential bacteria or viruses (COVID-19) on the frequently touched surfaces. This could be a very important factor in reopening schools and other shared spaces in a post-COVID19 world. In addition to having this light installed, it is just important that routine inspections and cleanings are scheduled and performed.
Does this UV Light Kill Corona Virus?
In a simple answer: Yes. The UV light has been scientifically proven to kill microbial growth, viruses and bacteria. However, it will not eliminate the need for routine cleanings to rid your ducts of dust, pet dander and other non-living allergens.
How are they installed?
UV lights are installed just above the evaporator coil that is located inside of the furnace or air handler. The installation near the coil is important, as this is where most of the microbial growth occurs. The coil is the area where the most moisture is produced and is a perfect breading ground for microbial growth. Having the UV light positioned in this location will eliminate the risk of growth. In addition, the air in your home flows through this coil, so all of the air in your home is being sterilized as it travels through the light. This helps keep your system clean and the air in your home fresh and virus free. The installation is available on all systems, it is relatively easy to install with no extra modifications to the system and the cost is relatively inexpensive. The UV bulb should be replaced every 1-2 years. Ask your air duct professional to setup reminders for your bulb replacement and routine cleaning schedule.
Is it expensive?
In a general answer: No. In other words, for residential and commercial applications, these lights can range from $400-600 per light depending on availability and quantities.
How often should I get my air ducts clean? How often should the light be replaced?
Above all, it is always good practice to have your air ducts cleaned by a professional approximately every 3 years. For instance, there are many benefits that come with having this routine service. One benefit is improved airflow. UV light prevents microbial buildup on air filters, cooling coils, drain pans, and duct surfaces therefore allowing the air to recirculate more efficiently. These cleanings and UV light can also boost the efficiency of your HVAC systems. Therefore, implementing a UV light to your HVAC system can reduce your home’s energy consumption by up to 35 percent, which saves the homeowner or business owner money in the long run. This is a relatively low-cost investment for your system. And as previously mentioned, this will help in killing germs and preventing microbial growth which will drastically improve the air quality in your home or office, reducing the chance of illness and indoor allergies.
Is there a way to test the cleanliness of the indoor air before and after these lights are installed? How can I tell if these are working?
Controlling the indoor air quality of your home or office is a made up of multiple steps and factors so not one single aspect will be enough. Good fresh air ventilation, filtration, air particles controlled (duct cleaning) and UV lights are all part of the equation of controlling and keeping your indoor air quality in good condition. Nothing replaces in person inspections of your system at least every 2 years to ensure the proper systems are working to keep your indoor air quality in check. It is also a good practice to change the air filters in your home or office every 30 days.
Who can perform these types of services?
A certified air duct cleaning company can install the lights within your air duct or air handler. It is a simple procedure. Call your air duct cleaning technician to confirm they are selling these UV lights and completing installations.
In conclusion, if you are unsure about the air quality in your home and want your family or business to be better protected from mold, viruses, bacteria and other toxins, schedule a UV light installation as a supplement to your air duct cleaning. Call Apex today. (732) 257.4590 or email us sales@apexairductcleaning.com We also invite you to visit our website.
