How Do UV Lights for HVAC Systems Work?

When you think of ultraviolet light, you may picture getting sunburned after spending a day at the pool. Having said that, UV light is also something you can use for improving indoor air quality. Sunscreen defends against UVA and UVB rays, but UVC is the type of light found in air purification. If you deal with allergies or asthma or hope to reduce the spread of illnesses around your home, a UV light installed in your HVAC system could be the air quality solution you’ve been searching for! 

How Does a UV Light Operate? 

The germicidal effects of ultraviolet light have been known for over a century. UVC rays were initially applied to treat tuberculosis. These days, germicidal lamps are found in hospitals, food processing facilities, water treatment plants and air purification equipment. 

A UV lamp added to your HVAC unit boosts the air quality in your home by eliminating microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, mold and more. It generally requires 10 seconds of contact to affect these germs’ DNA, killing them or blocking them from replicating. 

UV lights also address volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used in cleaners and repellents on top of airborne bioaerosols like pollen and pet dander. Still, UV lights don’t literally ‘trap’ contaminants, so you still require an air filtration system to remove dust, fibers and other particles from the air. 

How Powerful Are UV Lights? 

Assuming they are installed like they’re supposed to and utilize the right wavelength of UV light, germicidal lamps are very effective at increasing indoor air quality. One study completed by Duke University found that UV light eliminated more than 97 percent of drug-resistant bacteria from the air in hospital rooms. Another study noted “significantly lower” fungal levels within a commercial property’s HVAC equipment after four months of operating a UV light. 

Benefits of UV Lights 

Add an ultraviolet lamp in your HVAC system to take advantage of these benefits: 

• Cleaner indoor air: UV light technology disinfects the air around the clock without adding chemicals into the environment. As opposed to certain air purifiers, ultraviolet lamps don’t produce ozone, an infamous lung irritant that is toxic to people with asthma, allergies or prolonged lung diseases. 

• Decreased risk of getting sick: When combined with good personal hygiene, germ-killing UV lights can minimize the risk of getting viral and bacterial infections. 
• A layer of protection for your HVAC system: Mold, fungi and bacteria can clog up your heating and cooling equipment. Keep the system working smoothly and efficiently with a hard-working UV light. 
• Reduced HVAC maintenance and repair needs: With an inherently cleaner central HVAC system, you enjoy simpler maintenance requirements and minimal need for emergency repairs. These savings can help counter the cost of utilizing a UV light and replacing the bulb. 

Where Do UV Lights Get Installed? 

If you decide on an air-sanitizing UV light, your installation technician should position it in your ductwork near the HVAC system. There, the lamp helps clean the air before it spreads across your home. 

If you choose a coil-sanitizing UV light, it will sit near the AC evaporator coil. There, it deactivates mold and bacteria that accumulate on the damp coil, keeping your system clean and operating smoothly. 

Are UV Lights Safe? 

The sun continuously produces invisible UV radiation. As you know, UVA and UVB rays can burn your skin, so it’s essential to wear a high SPF sunscreen when spending time outside. The sun also produces UVC rays, the most destructive form of solar radiation capable of killing microorganisms and irritating other living tissue, like the skin and eyes. 

Fortunately, the atmosphere blocks out these rays altogether, so they don’t get through to the earth’s surface. 

Knowing that UVC rays are hazardous, why should you feel comfortable installing a UVC light in your home? It’s simple—the light is confined to the ductwork where you never come in contact with it, so it presents no risk to you and your family. When the time comes to clean the lamp or replace the bulb, your HVAC technician will shut off the system briefly to prevent exposure to the damaging light. 

How Long Do UV Lights Last? 

UV lights run continuously and typically last nine to 14 months. Annual HVAC maintenance (once in the spring for your air conditioner and again in the fall for your furnace) is the best possible time to have these bulbs checked and changed out as needed. 

Request UV Light Installation 

Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing features a range of air quality solutions, including UV lights for HVAC systems. We would be happy to analyze your home and your family’s needs to recommend the products that are best for you. Enjoy the peace of mind that that all work we complete is backed by a one-year 100% satisfaction guarantee. Get in touch with your local Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing office to schedule UV light installation or request a free home health consultation today.