Keeping your home properly cooled in the middle of a Tennessee summer is the single-most important feature of home comfort. And you might not think about it until your unit stops working and you’re facing the hot reality. But it is typically this time of year, more than winter, that HVACs are truly put to the test.
One way to proactively aid your heating and condensing unit’s fight against the heat is with an ultraviolet (UV) light! UV lights effectively kill microorganisms, which prevents corrosion and damage, and prolongs the lifespan of the HVAC system.
How Do UV Lights in HVACs work?
In HVAC systems, UV lights are installed inside the air handler unit. From inside they emit ultraviolet radiation that kills bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that are present in the air. The UV lights work by disrupting the DNA of these microorganisms, which prevents them from reproducing and spreading. UV lights are highly effective in improving indoor air quality and reducing the spread of airborne illnesses. (Read More: The Science of UV-C Lights)
History and Technology of UV Lights
The use of UV lights for disinfection dates to the early 1900s, when they were used to sterilize water and air in hospitals and other healthcare facilities. With advancements in technology, the use of UV lights has expanded to various industries, including HVAC systems. UV lights are a type of electromagnetic radiation that is invisible to the naked eye. They have a shorter wavelength than visible light, which makes them highly effective in killing bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms.
Why Are UV Lights in HVACs Great for Tennesseans?
In short, UV lights in HVAC systems are especially useful for Tennesseans due to the state’s humid climate, high pollen counts, allergy and asthma prevalence, and high energy costs. Let’s break those down further.
Right now, Parthenon Plumbing is offering up to $100 Off the purchase & install of a UV Light in your HVAC. Details here.
1. Humid Climate
Tennessee has a humid subtropical climate, which means that it experiences hot and humid summers and mild winters. This type of climate is conducive to the growth of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and mold, which can thrive in warm and moist conditions. UV lights in HVAC systems can effectively kill these microorganisms, improving indoor air quality and reducing the risk of respiratory illnesses.
2. High Pollen Counts
Tennessee is known for having high pollen counts, especially during the spring and fall months. Pollen can aggravate allergies and other respiratory conditions, leading to discomfort and illness. UV lights in HVAC systems can help reduce the presence of pollen in the air, improving overall air quality and reducing allergy symptoms.
3. Allergy and Asthma Prevalence
Tennessee has a higher than average prevalence of allergy and asthma. According to a 2023 study from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, Nashville ranks as the 66th most challenging place to live with allergies in the nation. UV lights in HVAC systems can help reduce the presence of allergens in the air, which can help alleviate allergy and asthma symptoms.
4. Energy Efficiency
Tennessee has relatively high energy costs compared to other states, especially during the summer months when air conditioning use is high. UV lights can improve the efficiency of the HVAC system by reducing the presence of microorganisms, such as bacteria and mold, on key components of your unit. According to the US Department of Energy, a clean HVAC system can reduce energy consumption by up to 15%.
In summary, installing UV lights in HVAC systems can help improve indoor air quality, reduce allergy and asthma symptoms, and lower energy consumption and utility bills. In addition, they can prolong the lifespan of your unit.
If you are interested in installing UV lights in your HVAC system, please contact Parthenon Plumbing to schedule a consultation with one of our experts. Call us at 615-298-2995. And don’t forget to ask us about becoming a Parthenon Partner!
Parthenon Partners
Parthenon Plumbing Heating & Cooling created Parthenon Partners for our loyal customers. The program is a simple way to save when it comes to the care of your home’s Heating and Condensing Unit. The program includes two seasonal tune-ups a year. Starting at only $10/month, Parthenon Partners comes with many other great benefits: 10% off on HVAC and Plumbing Repair Calls, Priority Service, Extended Sales Promotions and Emergency Service.
Schedule your first seasonal tune up by calling us at (615) 298-2995.
