How Do UV Lights for HVAC Systems Work?

When you think of ultraviolet light, you may think of getting sunburned after spending a day at the pool. And yet, UV light is also something you can use for improving indoor air quality. Sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB rays, but UVC is the form of light used in air purification. If you suffer from allergies or asthma or want to minimize the spread of illnesses around your home, a UV light in the HVAC system could be the air quality solution you’ve been looking for! 

How Does a UV Light Work? 

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

A UV lamp added to your HVAC unit improves the air quality in your home by eliminating microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, mold and more. It usually takes 10 seconds of contact to deactivate these germs’ DNA, killing them or preventing them from replicating. 

UV lights also target volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used in cleaners and repellents as well as airborne bioaerosols like pollen and pet dander. Still, UV lights don’t literally ‘trap’ contaminants, so you still need an air filtration system to remove dust, fibers and other particles from your home’s air supply. 

How Effective Are UV Lights? 

Provided they are installed like they’re supposed to and use the right wavelength of UV light, germicidal lamps are remarkably effective at improving indoor air quality. One study out of Duke University found that UV light removed more than 97 percent of drug-resistant bacteria from the air in hospital rooms. Another study measured “significantly lower” fungal levels in a commercial building’s HVAC system after four months of operating a UV light. 

Benefits of UV Lights 

Install an ultraviolet lamp in your HVAC system to make the most of these benefits: 

• Cleaner indoor air: UV light technology disinfects the air nonstop without introducing chemicals into the environment. Unlike other air purifiers, ultraviolet lamps don’t generate ozone, an infamous lung irritant that can be hazardous to individuals with asthma, allergies or chronic lung conditions. 

• Decreased likelihood of getting sick: When combined with good personal hygiene, germ-killing UV lights can reduce the risk of contracting 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 reliably and efficiently with a hard-working UV light. 
• Reduced HVAC maintenance and repair costs: With an inherently cleaner central HVAC system, you enjoy lower maintenance requirements and fewer emergency repairs. These savings can help offset the cost of running 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 will position it inside your ductwork near the HVAC system. There, the lamp affects the air before it flows through 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 collect on the damp coil, keeping your system clean and operating smoothly. 

Are UV Lights Safe? 

The sun continually emits invisible UV radiation. As you know, UVA and UVB rays can burn your skin, so it’s important to wear an effective sunscreen when spending time outside. The sun also emits UVC rays, the most damaging form of solar radiation capable of killing microorganisms and irritating other living tissue, like the skin and eyes. 

Thankfully, the atmosphere blocks out these rays completely, so they don’t reach the earth’s surface. 

With the knowledge that UVC rays are dangerous, why should you feel comfortable installing a UVC light in your home? It’s simple—the light is limited to your ductwork where you never come in contact with it, so it poses no risk to you and your family. When the time comes to clean the lamp or change the bulb, your HVAC technician will turn off the system temporarily to prevent exposure to the damaging light. 

How Long Do UV Lights Last? 

UV lights run constantly and typically last nine to 14 months. Routine HVAC maintenance (once in the spring for your air conditioner and again in the fall for your furnace) is the perfect time to have these bulbs looked at and replaced as needed. 

Schedule UV Light Installation 

Calverley Service Experts features a range of air quality solutions, including UV lights for HVAC systems. We would be happy to assess your home and your family’s needs to recommend the products that will work best for you. Rest easy knowing that all work we complete is backed by a one-year 100% satisfaction guarantee. Contact your local Calverley Service Experts office to schedule UV light installation or request a free home health consultation today.