With the ongoing concerns about Covid 19, much attention is being given to ultraviolet radiation and its overall ability to destroy bacteria. Certainly, any steps that can be taken today to kill off pathogens and bacteria have become a priority in our efforts to fight the existing Coronavirus and are sure to remain a priority in our lives going forward. We’d like to share some important details with our valued clients about UV lights when it comes to killing bacteria and viruses.
UV VARIATIONS
Before you set out to purchase any UV products, we want to help you to understand the many options that are out there and the differences between them all. In order to choose the appropriate product, it is important to understand the variations and how they work.
- UV-C/Germicidal UV – This type of UV radiation has wavelengths that fall within the range of 200-280nm. It is very effective in killing off a variety of pathogens. For this reason, it is highly recommended that the product is not used in the presence of people as its safety warning will suggest. With that said, it is best to use this product in a room that is clear or on an overnight cycle. This highly effective product is used to disinfect surfaces and can be added to your existing HVAC system, be purchased as a mobile unit, or as a handheld unit.
- Far-UVC – These UV lights are a smaller version of the germicidal light and are manufactured with a wavelength falling between 207 and 222nm. Different from the UV-C, the Far-UVC is safe for people to be around because its wavelength cannot penetrate the outer layer of the skin. However, these lights are very effective in fighting against a variety of bacteria and viruses.
- Broad-spectrum UV – Broad-Spectrum UV typically includes a combination of UV-C wavelengths with UV-A and UV-B. Because this product is so broad, it tends to be more effective against a number of pathogens and organisms. However, keep in mind that any product that contains germicidal UV is not safe for humans. One use of broad-spectrum UV lights is that of lighting fixtures. These fixtures contain occupancy sensors that shut down the product when motion is detected in the room. They also come with a timer that allows you to set them to turn on when the room is unoccupied.
- Near UV-Light – Mostly comprised of UV-A wavelengths, and falling in the range of 300 to 400nm, these lights can easily fight off bacteria but are not as effective with viruses. They are often used to fight off all types of bacteria in convalescent homes, senior centers and medical facilities and are considered safe for humans. They have been proven to fight off secondary infections of those individuals stricken with Covid-19.
THE IMPACT OF UV LIGHTS ON COVID-19
There are currently a number of studies underway to determine whether or not UV lights can actually kill the Covid-19 virus specifically. With Class 3 viruses being the easiest to destroy, and Class 1 and 2 being much harder to kill, if a product can kill a Class 1 or 2 then surely it will destroy a Class 3 as well. Coronaviruses fall within a Class 3 category. However, Covid-19 is said to have an entirely new structure which is why ongoing testing is now taking place.
Currently, there has not been evidence of any sort to indicate that UV lights can kill the Covid-19 virus. Many UV products have been highly effective against other types of coronaviruses in years past, but no confirmation of destroying this coronavirus yet to date.
THE PROFESSIONALS YOU CAN RELY
For more information on UV lights and the options available for providing safety to family and/or customers, be sure to reach out to the team here at South Nashville Heating and Cooling. Our team is on hand to answer all your questions with regard to germicidal solutions as we learn more about the current Covid-19 pandemic!
