The Benefits of Using UV Light for HVAC Systems

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At this point in the summer, we’re all aware of how vital HVAC systems are for providing cool air, but there’s something else they provide that is just as important: clean air. Let’s take a look at all the benefits of UV light for HVAC systems so you can get the most out of your equipment!

Understanding UV Lights and HVAC Systems

First off, it’s important to understand the role of UV light for HVAC systems. This technology uses ultraviolet rays to disinfect air and surfaces. When installed in your system, it targets the pathogens and other contaminants in the air as it passes through. By the time the air is released into your living spaces, it’s clean as can be!

There are two types of UV light for HVAC systems:

  • Coil Sterilization: These are installed close to the evaporator coils, and are used to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Air Sterilization: These are installed within your ductwork to purify the air that passes by.

Enhanced Air Quality

We’ve touched on enhanced air quality above, but how is it done and why is it so important? The contaminants that UV rays target in your air include allergens, bacteria, and viruses. When these things are prevented from reaching your lungs, there are plenty of benefits thanks to the improved indoor environment. These benefits encompass improvements to:

  • Respiratory health
  • Allergy symptoms
  • Risk of illness

These perks make for an invaluable upgrade to your HVAC system that you’ll thank yourself for installing.

Bacterial Growth and Mildew Prevention

With so much air and moisture passing through parts of your HVAC system, bacterial growth and mildew are a constant concern—especially on damp surfaces like evaporator coils and drain pans. With a UV light installation, you’ll not only enjoy better air, but your equipment will stay healthier as well! It keeps it clean, which in turn increases its efficiency. The cleaner your components are, the better your airflow will be, helping the whole system run well for years.

When there isn’t much bacterial growth or mildew to worry about, you’ll likely notice longer periods between unplanned maintenance calls. Though we still recommend regularly scheduled check-ups, unexpected ones can be costly and time-consuming. We love seeing you too, but the less frequently we visit, the better; it means your HVAC is healthy! 

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

So we’ve already gone over bacterial growth and mildew reduction. We know it keeps your system cleaner and reduces the need for unplanned visits from us, but it also means it doesn’t have to work as hard to meet your needs. Just as a retired quarterback can’t throw a ball as far as he used to, an HVAC system that’s past its prime will struggle to perform. 

The integration of UV light for HVAC systems saves energy thanks to its ability to keep everything in order. For you, this means less money out of your pocket and a smaller carbon footprint—a win-win!

Safety and Environmental Benefits

And speaking of carbon footprints, did we mention that UV disinfection is a chemical-free cleaning method? When you don’t need to rely on cleaning agents, you’re already making the environment happy. UV light for HVAC systems reduces the risk of chemical contamination, meaning you and your friendly neighborhood HVAC tech are safer and your system is clean and efficient.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

Of course, there are a few considerations you should be aware of before getting UV lights installed in your HVAC system.

High Initial Cost

There’s no way around it—Compared with more traditional cleaning methods, UV lights have larger up-front price tags. It’s important to keep in mind, though, that this price will be covered in the long run thanks to the energy you’ll be saving with a UV light installation.

Regular Maintenance

UV lights do require regular maintenance in order to ensure the best possible performance. That said, proper installation and maintenance can minimize the need for these maintenance appointments.

Common Misconception

There is a popular misconception about these devices that they produce harmful radiation. While prolonged exposure to UV rays could have adverse effects, the lights aren’t installed in living areas. You won’t find yourself in a situation where these rays will hit you for extended periods of time, so rest easy!

Conclusion

There are several benefits to installing UV lights in your HVAC system, from cleaner air to cost savings. Investing in this technology is a smart step in improving your air quality and, in turn, your quality of living. By understanding these benefits, you can make an educated decision to integrate them into your equipment. Should you need any help, you know we’re always here to help! Let’s go over your HVAC UV light options today!