Steril-Aire
EEC NOW OFFERS UVC LIGHTING SYSTEMS BY
PROTECT YOUR EMPLOYEES & CUSTOMERS.
What is Ultraviolet?
Ultraviolet (UV) light is one form of electromagnetic energy produced naturally by the sun. UV is a spectrum of light just below the visible light and it is split into four distinct spectral areas – Vacuum UV or UVV (100 to 200 nm), UVC (200 to 280 nm), UVB (280 to 315 nm) and UVA (315 to 400 nm).
What is Ultraviolet C?
The entire UV spectrum can kill or inactivate many microorganism species, preventing them from replicating. UVC energy at 253.7 nanometers provides the most germicidal effect. The application of UVC energy to inactivate microorganisms is also known as Germicidal Irradiation or UVGI.
What are the most common biological contaminants found in air handling systems?
Numerous studies have demonstrated that the HVAC system is a viable reservoir of pathogenic and opportunistic bacteria and mold. Below is a partial list of microorganisms that have been found on evaporator coils, drain pans and ducts:
How does HVAC biofilm impact indoor air quality?
The quality of indoor air, influenced by the levels of bioaerosols, contaminants and pollutants, can affect occupant health and development, resulting in reduced productivity and increased absenteeism. The biofilms themselves give off products of metabolism known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which can trigger occupant complaints of watery eyes and headaches and even severe allergy and asthma responses. The biological contaminants typically found on HVAC coils and drain pans have also been linked to Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) and hospital acquired infections.
How does HVAC biofilm impact HVAC energy use?
Biological fouling of evaporator fin and tube heat exchangers is a key contributor to decreased HVAC capacity. The biological fouling acts as an insulator, increasing air flow resistance and decreasing heat transfer. The fans run longer to maintain the building at the desired temperature, increasing kW draw with reduced cooling tonnage capacity. A mere 10% increase in fan motor run can significantly increase energy use. The chillers and pumps work harder to raise the leaving water temperature and achieve set temperature points. For each degree the water temperature is increased, a savings of 1-2% will be realized.
Steril-Aire high output UVC provides continuous cleaning of coils, eliminating the biofilm that causes reductions in operational efficiency. Studies have shown that removal of a .024” layer of biofilm can reduce HVAC energy usage by 21% by restoring heat transfer and system efficiency. Reduced cooling coil pressure drop helps save fan energy, while improved cooling coil heat transfer efficiency. Higher chilled water temperature setpoints allows the chiller plant to operate more efficiently.
How easy is installation?
The Rapid Install Kit (RIK) is factory assembled and tested. It consists of the following:
• Aluminum four-sided easy install, adjustable columns
• Galvanized steel housing and foot bracket assembly
• Pre-wired, factory installed 110-277 V power supplies with IP67 compliant moisture resistant female lead sockets
• Vibration-resistant fasteners and cap screws
• 2 galvanized ceiling “H” brackets
Steril-Aire’s Rapid Install Kit makes installation a breeze. They are specifically designed for easy and cost-effective installation with one electrical connection. No additional framing is required. The rapid install kits are pre-wired from the factory, significantly reducing installation time and HVAC downtime.
Steril-Aire Enhanced Single-Ended (ESE Series) fixtures are used for new and retrofit fan coils, heat pumps, unit ventilators, terminal units and ductwork. Installed from the exterior of the AHU, they provide easy installation by making a hole in the AHU wall or duct and simply mounting the fixture to the unit exterior. The Emitter penetrates into the system, while the power supply remains external.
If your goal is to maintain higher indoor air quality and protect those in your environment, then contact Energy Equipment Controls today for a free estimate!
Case Studies
Coil Cleaning Myths (Contracting Business)
Typical fin design restricts the effectiveness of pressure spraying for coil cleaning and simply “packs” the biological matter further into the coil interior resulting increased air pressure drop and reduced air flow.
Effectiveness of germicidal radiation for reducing fungal contamination within air-handling units (Applied and Environmental Microbiology)
This scientific abstract reviews the applicability and contribution of germicidal UV to significantly lower the levels of fungi growing on insulation within air-handling units (AHUs) and the reduction of airborne fungi levels.
Effectiveness of UV Light Controlling Fungal Contamination of Air Handling Units (The Journal of Asthma & Clinical Immunology)
Based on a controlled study at an office building, researchers established causal links between fungal contamination and building related illnesses such as rhinitis, asthma, humidifier fever and hypersensitivity diseases. The study concluded that germicidal UV can be an effective approach to reducing fungal contamination in AHU.
