What is meant by the term ultraviolet light?
The portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that is adjacent to visible light and has a higher energy level than visible light is referred to as ultraviolet light (UV). The ultraviolet spectrum can be broken down into three broad categories: shortwave, midrange, and longwave. This range of wavelengths can be found in ultraviolet light.
Ultraviolet light has a wavelength that is marginally shorter than that of visible light, and it can be segmented into the following three categories:
Longwave
A wide variety of naturally occurring and synthetically produced substances fluoresce when exposed to ultraviolet energy just outside the visible light range (also known as black light).
Midrange
In sunlight, ultraviolet radiation represents the shortest wavelengths and is responsible for sunburn; it is also used to fluoresce specific substances more efficiently than either shortwave or longwave UV radiation.
Shortwave
The wavelength of ultraviolet energy that is farthest from visible light; it is shorter than the wavelength of sunlight’s rays and is best known for its ability to fluoresce minerals for chemical analysis and for its germicidal effects. To kill mold and prevent its growth, shortwave ultraviolet light with a wavelength between 280 and 100 nm is effective.
The human eye is unable to detect any of the three different types of ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths, despite the fact that they are extremely powerful. UV-A is more commonly known as black light, UV-B comes from the sun, and UV-C can kill mold, bacteria, and mildew. It is used to protect equipment in medical settings where it is exposed to these pathogens. Because of the powerful cleaning capabilities it possesses, a UV-C lamp can also be installed in the indoor cooling coil of your HVAC system. This will prevent harmful particles from becoming airborne and subsequently recirculating throughout your home.
HOW DOES UV LIGHT KILL BACTERIA AND MOLD?
- UV light emits short wavelengths of energy, which can pass through the mold. When this is done, the DNA inside is shattered, which cleans it and eventually renders it inactive.
- Direct exposure to UV-C light is required in order for it to be effective in removing mold, bacteria, or mildew from the affected area.
- When you install a UV lamp as part of your HVAC system, it helps kill mold, bacteria, and mildew that thrive in the environment.
- It is imperative that you never look directly at the UV lamp while it is operating because exposure to UV light can cause damage to human skin.
