Biological Contaminants, Mold, Pet Dander, And Dust Mites Can Pollute Indoor Air Quality, But Not With UV Lights

Oregon homeowners now have an unlikely ally in the fight against indoor air pollutants: UV light.

UV, or ultraviolet, light is invisible to humans, and is best known as the reason why we wear sunscreen outside. Certain wavelengths of UV light can do more than just give you a tan, though; in the right concentration, they can be deadly to small organisms like mold and bacteria. This short-wavelength UV light is essentially nonexistent in sunlight, because it is blocked by the Earth’s atmosphere long before it reaches the surface. But these short-wavelength UV lights are now available for use in your HVAC system.

This is important, because the air inside our Oregon homes and businesses is filled with biological contaminants. In fact, the EPA has included indoor air quality on its list of the top five environmental health risks that Americans face. Microorganisms that cause diseases, allergies, and asthma attacks thrive in indoor air, where the same conditions that make us comfortable also allow germs and other small pests to flourish. According to experts, these indoor air contaminants contribute to 50 percent of the illnesses we suffer through.

By installing UV lights inside the main duct-work of your HVAC system, you expose all the air in your house to the light source several times each day. The light kills off germs and other sources of biological pollution, while remaining confined and concealed inside the ducts.

Using UV lights to improve air quality and prevent disease is an established and well-tested method. According to the Centers for Disease Control, a UV light source paired with a high-quality air filter is the best way to remove biological pollutants from your indoor air. The UV lights kill the microorganisms, while the filter removes the dead organisms and other particles from your home’s air supply.

To learn more about UV lights and other ways to improve the indoor air quality of your Oregon home or business, contact us at Roth Heating & Cooling, Plumbing, Electrical, Drain Services in Canby. We’ll be happy to answer your questions.