Indoor air quality is critical for maintaining a healthy and safe environment for building occupants. Unfortunately, pollutants, allergens, and microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and mold can contaminate indoor air, leading to various health issues. Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI) is a technology that uses ultraviolet (UV) light to inactivate and destroy microorganisms, preventing them from becoming biological hazards.
Biofilm in HVAC Systems
Biofilm is a complex microbial matrix of mold and bacteria that grows on the fins of the HVAC system’s evaporator coils, drain pans, and ducts. What appears as dirt, slime, or sludge on the surfaces of these components is, in fact, biofilm. Biofilm can also grow on other surfaces where moisture and nutrients are present. The presence of biofilm in HVAC systems can create serious health hazards for building occupants.
Numerous studies have demonstrated that improper maintenance of HVAC systems can contribute to the growth and dissemination of pathogenic, opportunistic bacteria, viruses, and mold. Biofilms give off products of metabolism known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can trigger occupant complaints of watery eyes, headaches, and even severe allergy and asthma responses. In some extreme cases, biofilms can lead to Sick Building Syndrome (SBS), a condition in which occupants experience symptoms related to a particular building.
The quality of indoor air is influenced by the levels of bioaerosols, contaminants, and pollutants, which can significantly impact occupant health and development. Therefore, it is essential to take steps to prevent biofilm growth in HVAC systems and improve indoor air quality.
UVGI Technology to Prevent Biofilm Growth
Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI) technology has proven to be a highly effective means of preventing the growth of biofilms in HVAC systems. UVGI uses ultraviolet energy to inactivate and destroy microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses, by altering their DNA and preventing reproduction. UVGI’s germicidal effect is strongest when using UVC energy, which has a 200 to 280 nanometers wavelength.
UVGI technology can be applied to HVAC systems in several ways, including using ultraviolet germicidal lamps. These lamps emit a concentrated radiation of ultraviolet energy that destroys microorganisms on contact. Installing UVGI lamps in an HVAC system requires air handlers and duct system modifications to accommodate the lamps. The process also requires new power to feed each lamp.
ColonialWebb and Chesterfield Country School Systems
ColonialWebb’s Special Projects MEP team partnered with Chesterfield County School Systems to install UVGI systems in 15 schools. The installation process involved modifying the HVAC air handlers and duct systems to accommodate the UV lamps. The skilled team of HVAC technicians, sheet metal workers, and electricians performed the installation to include new power to feed each of the lamps.
The partnership between ColonialWebb and Chesterfield County School Systems is an excellent example of how UVGI technology can improve indoor air quality and reduce the risk of illness. ColonialWebb is proud to have worked with the county to provide good indoor air quality to the occupants of the school system.
Benefits of UVGI Technology
UVGI technology is a powerful tool for preventing the growth of harmful biofilms in HVAC systems and improving indoor air quality. By using UVC energy to alter the structure and molecular bonds of microorganisms, UVGI effectively neutralizes their ability to reproduce and become a biological hazard. The partnership between ColonialWebb’s Special Projects MEP team and Chesterfield County School Systems is a prime example of the practical applications of UVGI technology in safeguarding public health. With the potential risks associated with indoor air pollution, it is essential to take action to mitigate these issues.
Consider partnering with ColonialWebb to address your air quality concerns using UVGI technology. Contact ColonialWebb’s team of experts today to learn more about how we can help you improve indoor air quality and safeguard the health of your building occupants.
