UV light systems have become very popular within HVAC systems. There are many reasons for this. UV lights reduce allergens and keep your system running at its peak efficiency, and the daily electricity cost is about the same as a standard light bulb.
Homeowners concerned with indoor air quality should consider a UV light system for two reasons: it helps inhibit the mold growth that could destroy the efficiency of your HVAC system. and it helps cut down on allergens in your home and improves your indoor air quality.
As mold grows, it insulates the air from the cooling coils. This means that your system will need to run longer and more often to get the same effect.
Further, just as mold is bad for your HVAC system, it is also bad for your your lungs. Mold, bacteria, fungus spores and viruses are all controlled outside by the UV light from the sun. Inside there is nothing stopping them from growing. Adding this technology into your air exchange system means that you can keep the air inside your home as clean as the air outside. While it varies from system to system, some UV light systems can be used to control odor as well as harmful particles.
Even better, maintenance is simple. Because the UV light coming from the bulb will fade quickly, you will need to change it regularly, even if it is still “on”. The UV light output diminishes by about 40 percent for every year in operation. For preventing mold buildup in your air conditioning system, replace the bulb once every two years. If your primary concern is allergens, then you should replace you UV lights at least once a year instead. This will keep respiratory inflammation to a minimum.
Installation should always be handled by a qualified HVAC technician. For those in the Calgary area, Arpi’s Industries, Ltd., has been a leader in professional HVAC services for many years. Contact us for an evaluation of your system, along with an estimate to get a UV light system installed in your home.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Calgary, Alberta 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.
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