With spring just around the corner, we’re moving from the cold and flu season into the allergy season. The simple fact is – indoor air quality is something you should be concerned about year-round.
In addition to cleaning or changing your HVAC filter on a regular basis, and having your air ducts cleaned as needed, you might also want to consider UV lights to help reduce contaminants.
UV lights kill a wide range of germs and other microorganisms, including mold and fungus, that can cause or exacerbate a variety of acute and chronic health conditions, including respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies.
Medical and industrial facilities that require a sterile environment have long used UV light to control airborne contaminants and residential UV systems are now available for home use. Although direct exposure to ultraviolet light can be hazardous to humans, UV light systems can safely be installed inside your heating and air conditioning ducts, or in the coil or drip pan in ways that protect your family from direct exposure.
As indoor air is circulated through the heating and cooling system, microorganisms and germs are exposed to the UV light’s shortwave light rays which alter their genetic makeup in ways that prevent them from reproducing.
UV light treatment of indoor air is recommended for homes with children and elderly adults, where antimicrobial products are used, and which are located in humid climates which promote the growth of microorganisms. In extremely humid areas, the use of a dehumidifier is also highly recommended.
UV treatment of your indoor air can also help reduce unpleasant odors that are caused by the presence of mold and / or mildew.
UV light systems don’t impede the air flow within the system, and don’t require frequent changes like filters do, so there is no loss of efficiency.
To learn more about improving the indoor air quality of your home, contact Metro Energy Savers today.
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