There are a handful of questions that are commonly asked regarding UVC lights. Here are the five that we see most often.
1. What is UVC?
Short-wave ultraviolet radiation, in the “C” band of 200 to 280 nanometers, has been used in a wide range of germicidal applications since the late 1800s to destroy bacteria, mold, yeast, and viruses. UV-C, or UVC, is often referred to as germicidal UV. Ultraviolet light in this wavelength renders the organisms sterile. When organisms can no longer reproduce, they die.
2. How does it work?
In general the UVC light is installed on the discharge side of the cooling coil and mounted so as to expose both the coil surface and the drain pan to as much light as possible. The light is normally positioned about a foot from the coil surface. The “C” wavelength targets the DNA of microorganisms, causing cell death or making replication impossible. The UVC energy kills or inactivates microbes, eradicating surface biofilm. Fixture UVC Emitters continuously clean coils, drain pans, plenums and ducts; improves product quality, shelf-life and yield in food processing plants.
3. Can UVC save energy?
Yes. UVC devices degrade organic buildup in coils, keeping coils continuously clean. This lowers HVAC energy costs by improving heat transfer and increasing net cooling capacity. Steril-Aire has a Life Cycle Cost program that provides an excellent way to predict energy and operational savings.
4. How often do the UVC lamps need to be changed?
The actual life of a UVC light is 10 – 12,000 hours. The useful life is 8-9,000 hours. UV output is measured with a radiometer. Typically the light is changed annually — ideally in spring or early summer to provide optimal output during the peak air-conditioning season.
5. Is UVC harmful?
UVC is only harmful under prolonged direct exposure – which is not generally an issue, since the devices are installed inside air conditioning equipment or are otherwise shielded to prevent exposure. Use of safety goggles and gloves is recommended as a precaution during installation to protect the eyes and skin. UVC light cannot pass through glass. There is no harm to look through an air handling unit access window at UVC lighting.