UV Lights for Your Heater & Air Conditioner

When you think of UV lights, you might think of long, purple tubes of light or the sun’s light. But in fact, UV lights have been used in homes and businesses for a long time to disinfect spaces and surfaces as a type of “germicidal lamp.” Now, we have begun implementing UV lamps and lights in HVAC systems to help clean and sanitize air particles as they move through the system.

But what are these lights? How do they work? Are they worth it? We’ll be covering all this and more with this guide to UV lights for HVAC systems.

What is an Ultraviolet Light or Lamp?

Ultraviolet light comes in three different types: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVA and UVB are commonly known as the type of UV radiation that we protect ourselves from with sunblock! However, UVC radiation is a well-known and used disinfectant, and it has been used for decades to reduce the spread of microorganisms. How?

UVC radiation is the only kind of radiation that is powerful enough to kill microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. As such, it is the perfect tool to fight germs – it’s even been shown to be effective against the spread of COVID-19! A UVC light just harnesses this type of energy to sanitize non-porous surfaces, air, and water.

How Does a UVC Light Work in an HVAC System?

It’s quite simple. When you have a central AC system, a UVC light can be installed in the ductwork or the air handler, where it works passively to clean the air as it passes through the system. Your ducts and air conditioner pump cool air throughout your home, but it can also spread microbes through your space as well. UV lights reduce the microorganisms in the air before they get a chance to get blown back into the room! There are two types of HVAC system UV lights:

• Coil Sterilization Lights: This type of purifier targets problem areas like coils, where bacteria and mold are likely to start growing. This prevents the build-up of grime and microbes on these parts of your AC system, which are usually more difficult to clean.
• Air Sterilization Lights: This kind of light sanitizes the air as it passes through the system, and it is often called an in-duct system because it works in the return ducts instead of directly on the system.

Air purification devices, like air scrubbers or UV lights, are a great way to improve your indoor air quality, keep your system at peak efficiency, and prevent the spread of disease and illnesses in the home.

Should I Get a UVC Light for My Home’s AC System?

UVC lights are great devices, and they’ve been shown to be effective at reducing bacteria and fungi in air-handling units. By having a UV light professionally installed in your AC, you can improve the health of your home while increasing the lifespan of your unit. UV lights and air scrubbers are some of the best tools for improving indoor air quality, but they are often overlooked.

Interesting in a UVC Light? Call Us!

If you’re interested in seeing what kinds of IAQ purification systems are available for your home, contact your local HVAC company! All types of IAQ equipment should be installed by a professional for your safety and the safety of your system. A company like Cool Rays AC can help you figure out the best options for your home. Call today!

Looking for more tips and guides for your HVAC system? We’ve got tons! Read about HVAC systems, how they work, and more here.