How Do UV Lights for HVAC Systems Work?

When you think of ultraviolet light, you probably imagine getting sunburned after a long day at the pool. However, UV light is also something you can use for enhancing indoor air quality. Sunscreen defends against UVA and UVB rays, but UVC is the kind of light used in air purification. If you suffer from allergies or asthma or hope to reduce the spread of illnesses across your home, a UV light within the HVAC system just might be the air quality solution you’ve been hoping for! 

How Does a UV Light Operate? 

The germicidal effects of ultraviolet light have been understood for more than a century. UVC rays were initially used to treat tuberculosis. These days, germicidal lamps are found in hospitals, food processing plants, water treatment plants and air purification systems. 

A UV lamp installed into your HVAC system improves the air quality in your home by wiping out microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, mold and more. It usually requires 10 seconds of contact to deactivate these germs’ DNA, killing them or preventing them from replicating. 

UV lights also address volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in cleaners and repellents on top of airborne bioaerosols such as pollen and pet dander. That being said, UV lights don’t actually ‘trap’ contaminants, so you still need an air filtration system to capture dust, fibers and other particles from your home’s air supply. 

How Successful Are UV Lights? 

Assuming they are installed correctly and utilize the right wavelength of UV light, germicidal lamps are very effective at improving indoor air quality. One study from Duke University illustrated that UV light removed more than 97 percent of drug-resistant bacteria from the air in hospital rooms. Another study revealed “significantly lower” fungal levels inside a commercial building’s HVAC system after four months of operating a UV light. 

Benefits of UV Lights 

Place an ultraviolet lamp in your HVAC system to enjoy these benefits: 

  • Cleaner indoor air: UV light technology sanitizes the air nonstop without dispersing chemicals into the environment. As opposed to certain air purifiers, ultraviolet lamps don’t generate ozone, a recognized lung irritant that can be harmful to individuals with asthma, allergies or prolonged lung illnesses. 
  • Lower risk of getting sick: Alongside good personal hygiene, germ-killing UV products can minimize the risk of catching viral and bacterial infections. 
  • Stronger protection for your HVAC system: Mold, fungi and bacteria can gunk up your heating and cooling equipment. Keep the system running smoothly and efficiently with a hard-working UV light. 
  • Reduced HVAC maintenance and repair bills: 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 using a UV light and replacing the bulb. 

Where Do UV Lights Get Installed? 

If you select an air-sanitizing UV light, your installer should position it within your ductwork near the HVAC system. There, the lamp helps clean the air before it spreads across your home. 

If you would rather have a coil-sanitizing UV light, it should sit around the AC evaporator coil. There, it affects mold and bacteria that accumulate on the damp coil, keeping your system clean and operating smoothly. 

Are UV Lights Safe? 

The sun continually releases invisible UV radiation. As you already know, UVA and UVB rays can burn your skin, so it’s essential to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen when hanging out outside. The sun also gives off 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 entirely, so they don’t make it to the earth’s surface. 

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

How Long Do UV Lights Last? 

UV lights are on constantly and usually last nine to 14 months. Yearly HVAC maintenance (once in the spring for your air conditioner and again in the fall for your furnace) is the ideal time to have these bulbs checked and changed out when necessary. 

Schedule UV Light Installation 

Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing offers a suite of air quality solutions, including UV lights for HVAC systems. We would be happy to evaluate your home and your family’s needs to suggest the products that will work best for you. Rest easy knowing that all work we perform 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

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