How Do UV Lights for HVAC Systems Work?

When you hear the phrase ultraviolet light, you might think of getting sunburned after a long day at the pool. However, UV light is also a tool for increasing indoor air quality. Sunscreen defends against UVA and UVB rays, but UVC is the form of light applied in air purification. If you suffer from allergies or asthma or would like to limit the dispersal of illnesses across your home, a UV light in the HVAC system can be the air quality solution you’ve been hoping for! 

How Does a UV Light Operate? 

The germicidal impacts of ultraviolet light have been understood for more than 100 years. UVC rays were even employed to treat tuberculosis. These days, germicidal lamps are found in hospitals, food processing centers, water treatment plants and air purification equipment. 

A UV lamp added to your HVAC system 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 disrupt these germs’ DNA, killing them or blocking them from replicating. 

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

How Effective Are UV Lights? 

Assuming they are installed like they’re supposed to and use the right wavelength of UV light, germicidal lamps are very effective at increasing indoor air quality. One study completed by Duke University illustrated that UV light eliminated more than 97 percent of drug-resistant bacteria from the air in hospital rooms. Another report measured “significantly lower” fungal levels in a commercial business’ HVAC equipment after four months of applying 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 sanitizes the air around the clock without adding chemicals into the environment. Compared to some air purifiers, ultraviolet lamps don’t produce ozone, a known lung irritant that is hazardous to those with asthma, allergies or frequent lung illnesses. 

• Lower chance of getting sick: When combined with good personal hygiene, germ-killing UV lights can reduce the risk of contracting viral and bacterial infections. 
• Protection for your HVAC system: Mold, fungi and bacteria can gunk up your heating and cooling equipment. Keep the system working smoothly and efficiently with a quality UV light. 
• Reduced HVAC maintenance and repair needs: With an inherently cleaner central HVAC system, you enjoy simpler maintenance requirements and fewer emergency repairs. These savings can help recoup the cost of using a UV light and replacing the bulb. 

Where Do UV Lights Get Installed? 

If you choose 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 throughout your home. 

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

Are UV Lights Safe? 

The sun continuously releases invisible UV radiation. As you probably know, UVA and UVB rays can burn your skin, so it’s crucial to use a high SPF sunscreen when hanging out outdoors. The sun also gives off UVC rays, the most damaging type of solar radiation capable of killing microorganisms and irritating other living tissue, like the skin and eyes. 

Fortunately, the atmosphere filters out these rays entirely, so they don’t reach the earth’s surface. 

With the knowledge that UVC rays are harmful, why should you feel okay with installing a UVC light in your HVAC system? It’s simple—the light is confined to the ductwork where you never come in contact with it, so it poses no risk to you and your family. When the time comes to maintain the lamp or change the bulb, your HVAC technician will shut down the system for a short time to avoid being exposed to the damaging light. 

How Long Do UV Lights Last? 

UV lights are used constantly and typically 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 best possible time to have these bulbs looked at and changed out when necessary. 

Schedule UV Light Installation 

Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts offers a number of air quality solutions, including UV lights for HVAC systems. We would be delighted to evaluate your home and your family’s needs to advise the solutions that are best for you. Rest assured that all work we produce is backed by a one-year 100% satisfaction guarantee. Reach out to your local Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts office to schedule UV light installation or request a free home health consultation today.