UV Lights Need Occasional Attention

Despite Southwest Arizona’s arid climate, Yuma has its fair share of allergens in the air. The lack of humidity can also irritate the membranes of the nose and lungs, making it difficult for them to filter our breaths effectively. The introduction of ultraviolet (UV) lights has resulted in a conspicuous improvement in indoor air quality in many homes, but homeowners should be aware that UV lights need occasional attention.

What Ultraviolet Lights Are. UV Lights Need Occasional Attention

UV lights are a source of radiation that’s entirely harmless to human beings of all ages and health conditions (though one should never look directly at illuminated UV bulbs). The radiation, however, does kill organic particulates such as mold spores, bacteria and viruses that can negatively impact indoor air quality.

Contaminant Control.

UV lights are intended to reduce the presence of biological airborne contaminants that can aggravate health issues; conventional filters are still required to arrest dust, pollen and other solid particles in the airstream. Because mold, mildew, viruses and other germs are all reduced or eradicated, noticeable lifestyle improvements are enjoyed by people who suffer from allergies, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and other respiratory ailments.

Longevity

A UV bulb’s life expectancy is determined by the conditions under which it’s used, and by the goals of the homeowner:

  • Single-bulb installations are typically located over air conditioner coils, to prevent the growth of mold colonies in this warm, humid location. These bulbs should be changed every two years.
  • Dual-bulb installations typically site the second unit in the airstream, intended to remove airborne micro-organisms such as viruses and organic allergens. These bulbs should be changed every 9,000 hours, which equates to approximately once a year.

No UV lamps should be run for longer than three years. Their internal ballasts may begin to break down, resulting in an uneconomic use of power and causing excessive heat. All Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Co. technicians are fully conversant with all aspects of UV lights and the occasional attention they need. Please contact us today.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Yuma, Arizona about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).  For more information about UV lights and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock