Indoor air quality is important for health and comfort but can be challenging to maintain. HVAC systems circulate airborne contaminants like mold, bacteria, viruses, and allergens throughout a home. Installing ultraviolet (UV) lights in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment effectively destroys these microorganisms and improves indoor air purity.
What Are UV Lights and How Do They Work?
The Benefits of UV Lights for HVAC Systems
Types of UV Lights for Residential and Commercial HVAC
Proper Installation of UV Lights by HVAC Technicians
Maintenance and Safety Tips for UV HVAC Systems
The Cost of Installing UV Lights for HVAC
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
Signs It's Time to Install UV HVAC Lights
Finding the Best HVAC Company for UV Light Installation
Arm yourself with information before deciding if installing this advanced disinfection technology is suitable for your indoor environment.
UV light falls outside the visible color spectrum, with shorter wavelengths and higher frequencies than we can see. It is generated by special lamps and LED bulbs that emit radiation in the ultraviolet spectrum. There are three types:
UV-A: The longest UV wavelength. It can damage skin and eyes with prolonged exposure but has low disinfection abilities.
UV-B: More effective than UV-A at disinfecting surfaces, but still lower power. It can cause skin damage and is used in tanning beds.
UV-C: The shortest UV wavelength with the highest frequency. It provides the strongest germicidal abilities, but the ozone layer absorbs the most natural UV-C from the sun.
In HVAC systems, UV-C lights are used because they can penetrate the cell walls of microorganisms like mold, bacteria, viruses, and fungi. The UV rays disrupt their DNA and prevent them from reproducing. UV-C renders them inactive with prolonged exposure, disinfecting the air passing through the HVAC equipment.
UV lightsfor HVAC systems typically utilize mercury vapor lamps or UV LEDs that emit UV-C radiation for air and surface disinfection. The lights are mounted inside the HVAC equipment and integrated into the system's electrical controls. As air circulates through the HVAC unit, the UV light irradiates the microbes, neutralizing them so they cannot contaminate the indoor environment.
Installing UV lights in an HVAC system provides a wide range of benefits:
Destroys airborne mold, bacteria, allergens, and viruses: UV exposure kills up to 99% of these microscopic contaminants as they pass through the HVAC equipment, significantly improving indoor air quality.
Prevents microbial growth on coils and in drain pans: The moist, dark environment of HVAC systems promotes mold, algae, and bacteria growth. UV prevents this to improve system efficiency and airflow. destroys microorganisms and oxidizes compounds that cause foul HVAC odors and indoor air pollutants.
Reduces odors and VOCs: UV exposure destroys microorganisms and oxidizes compounds that cause foul HVAC odors and indoor air pollutants.
Requires minimal maintenance: UV bulbs last 9-24 months and are simple to replace. Minimal maintenance is needed beyond periodic bulb replacement.
Improves energy efficiency: Keeping coils free of microbial buildup improves heat transfer and airflow, reducing energy consumption
Extends equipment life: Reducing microbial growth prevents corrosion, clogs, and damage to HVAC components.
Lowers HVAC maintenance costs: Preventing issues like condensate pan buildup and drain clogs reduces maintenance needs.
Provides whole-home disinfection: Central HVAC systems distribute air throughout the home, bringing UV purification to every room.
There are a few different options when selecting UV lights for HVAC systems:
Coil Irradiation Lights: Mounted inside the air handler to focus on keeping the evaporator coil free of microbial growth.
In-Duct Air Purifiers: Installed ductwork to purify air before circulating through the home.
High-Output Lamps: Provide extreme UV intensity for commercial HVAC systems serving large spaces.
Portable UV Air Purifiers: Can be moved throughout a home to provide room disinfection as needed.
LED UV Emitters: Offer LED bulbs' efficiency and longevity benefits in a UV disinfection product.
The type and number of UV lights needed depend on the space size, HVAC equipment, and desired level of disinfection. A qualified HVAC technician can recommend the ideal setup.
While DIY UV light installation may seem straightforward, specialized expertise is recommended for optimal safety and performance. HVAC professionals have the training to:
Strategically place UV lamps within HVAC equipment for thorough air and surface exposure.
Select appropriate UV wattage and coverage for the size of your HVAC system.
Safely handle and install UV bulbs without direct exposure to UV rays.
Electrical wiring to integrate UV controls with the HVAC power supply.
Proper duct sealing if in-duct UV air purifiers are used.
Adjusting fan speeds for the desired level of UV exposure time.
Confirm adequate irradiation using UV inspection tools.
Provide personal protective equipment for any required maintenance.
Reputable HVAC companies have extensive experience designing and installing UV systems with professional equipment. They follow safety procedures explicitly developed for HVAC UV lighting.
While UV HVAC lights run maintenance-free in the background, periodic upkeep is required:
Replace UV bulbs based on manufacturer-recommended timeframes, typically every 9-24 months, as bulbs lose intensity.
Wipe down UV lamp tubes to remove any accumulated dust or dirt blocking UV rays.
Ensure all access panels to the UV lights remain securely closed to avoid exposure risks.
Never look directly at glowing UV bulbs. Wear UV safety glasses if direct viewing is necessary.
Turn off UV lights and allow bulbs to cool before handling to avoid potential burns.
Use thick gloves when handling UV bulbs to avoid contact with oils that can diminish UV output.
Check that any electrical connections to the UV system remain intact.
Schedule annual HVAC maintenance to check the UV system and the rest of the HVAC equipment. Report ap observed issues.
Typical costs for HVAC-compatible UV lights include:
UV Lamps: $50 - $150 per bulb depending on wattage and features
Ballasts: $100 - $500 depending on wattage and voltage
HVAC Installation: $200 - $1000 depending on home size and complexity
Ongoing costs are low, amounting to new bulbs every 1-2 years. Energy savings from improved efficiency can offset much of the operating costs.
While benefits typically outweigh the downsides, consider a few UV HVAC disadvantages:
Upfront purchase and installation costs can be prohibitive for some homeowners.
Does not physically filter out allergens, dust, and dander - a high-MERV air filter is still beneficial.
Duct leaks may allow air to bypass UV exposure, reducing effectiveness.
Can produce trace amounts of ozone, a lung irritant. Look for low-ozone UV systems.
UV exposure risks require proper safety precautions during maintenance and repairs.
Discuss any concerns with your HVAC technician to determine if UV lights suit your situation. With professional installation and maintenance, drawbacks are usually minimal.
Consider adding UV disinfection if your HVAC system exhibits any of the following:
Visible microbial growth on coils or in drain pans
Musty odors emitting from HVAC vents
Poor air quality or high levels of airborne irritants like dust and pet dander
Mold growth anywhere in your home's ductwork
Household members have air quality-related health issues like allergies or asthma
You want to protect occupants with weakened immune systems
Condensate drain lines frequently clog with algae and slime
Your HVAC system consistently underperforms and runs inefficiently
While UV lights benefit most systems, they offer the most significant advantages when contamination challenges exist.
Avoid safety and performance risks using qualified HVAC technicians for any UV system work. When picking an HVAC company, look for:
Strong reviews vouched for by many local homeowners.
NATE-certified and fully trained HVAC technicians.
Extensive expertise with UV system design and installation.
A customized UV solution tailored to your HVAC equipment.
A long history of serving your local area.
Detailed explanations of options, costs, maintenance, and benefits.
Recommendations for your exact situation rather than a blanket sales pitch.
Photographs of past UV installation work.
A reputable company with specialized UV experience is critical for maximum lighting effectiveness and return on your investment.
While the initial purchase and installation cost represent an investment, UV lights offer long-term dividends for indoor air. They provide comprehensive air purification and microbial control with proper HVAC filtration. Just be sure qualified professionals handle installation and maintenance. Contact a top-rated local HVAC company to discuss whether a UV system makes sense for your home or business.
