Do UV lights in HVAC work?

Category: home and garden indoor environmental quality
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UV lights are effective, but they work in a specific range. In most residential cases, an HVAC company will install the UV light near the coils to prevent mold or bacteria growth as air passes through. Since all of the air passes through the coils, this also kills growths in the air.



Similarly one may ask, are UV lights in HVAC worth it?

According to the technician from Engineered Air, HVAC UV lights are very effective at controlling mold inside the air handler. All mold in line-of-sight of the UV bulb will be killed, keeping the coil mold-free.

Beside above, where do you put UV light in HVAC? Depending on your needs and the system you choose, you may install the UV lights directly in the air handler. In addition to the air handler, you may choose to install them in the air return or in strategic areas throughout the ductwork.

Accordingly, how much is a UV light for HVAC?

Type Light Cost Energy Cost
Coil Sanitizing Lights $60-$285+ $15-$30 each year
Air Sanitizing Lights $80-$400+ $15-$30 each year

How do you install UV light in HVAC?

The Five Steps To An HVAC UV Light Installation

  1. #1. Choose Where To Install The UV Light.
  2. #2. Drill The Hole(s) For The UV Light.
  3. #3. Screw The Germicidal UV Light To The Furnace.
  4. #4. Power The A/C UV Light System.
  5. #5. Change & Clean The UV Light Bulb.

29 Related Question Answers Found

Will a UV light kill mold?

Ultraviolet (UV) Light is a proven technology that has been killing mold, fungus, bacteria, and viruses since the beginning of time. Ultraviolet light can kill mold in air and on surfaces. It's effective at treating the mold you know about, and can help kill mold, including airborne spores that you can't see.

Do I need a UV light in my AC unit?

Yes, it does. UV light technology for air conditioners has been scientifically tested and proven to reduce fungal contamination inside of air handler units and reduce airborne pathogens. However, it is important that the UV light is installed properly, or it will not be as effective and a waste of money.

Do UV lights kill virus?


Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) is a disinfection method that uses short-wavelength ultraviolet (UV-C) light to kill or inactivate microorganisms by destroying nucleic acids and disrupting their DNA, leaving them unable to perform vital cellular functions.

Is UV germicidal light safe?

UV radiation (UVR) used in most germicidal bulbs is harmful to both skin and eyes, and germicidal bulbs should not be used in any fixture or application that was not designed specifically to prevent exposure to humans or animals. Chronic effects include accelerated skin aging and skin cancer.

Is UV light in air purifier safe?

While many ultraviolet air purifiers are safe for use, they generate ozone. Prolonged exposure to ozone is harmful to humans, plants, and animals. It's important however to note that when produced in small quantities, ozone remains safe.

Does higher MERV rating restrict airflow?

A decade ago, it used to be that if you had an HVAC system that used panel filters rated 6 through 9 MERV, putting in a MERV 11 or higher filter would restrict airflow (known as filter pressure drop). In turn, this would lengthen the system's run-time, adding to your heating and cooling costs.

How much does it cost to run a UV light?

Multiply $0.0195374 by the number of hours you plan to run the lights (14 hours). The cost to run the lights per day is $0.2735236 or $8.20 per month. If I have an HID (high intensity discharge) light with a 600 watt bulb in it, using the same method of calculation, it would cost me $30.90 per month.

Do UV air cleaners really work?


Yes, SOME UV air purifiers really work. Numerous health studies have shown that UV-C light very effectively inactivates viruses, bacteria, mold, mildew and fungi by breaking down their DNA or RNA. UV light also is helpful in prevention of secondary allergies related to airborne allergens.

How much does it cost to install an air scrubber?

Air Scrubber technology generally costs around $1,000-$2,000 depending on the size of your home and HVAC system. Given the high costs of HVAC repair, replacements, and utility bills, combined with medical costs, it is well worth the investment.

Do HVAC UV lights produce ozone?

EPA: According to two studies, operating UV lamps installed in HVAC systems to irradiate the surfaces of air-handling units does not result in increased concentrations of ozone.

What is the best UV light for HVAC?

Here is my list of the best UV lights to install in your HVAC
  • OdorStop UV Light Sanitizer For HVAC (my top #1 choice.
  • Honeywell UV Light Air Treatment System (a close second)
  • Pureuv 24volt UV Light Air Treatment System.
  • D200 UV Light System for HVAC.
  • Bio-Shield Air Sanitizer UV Light.

What is UV light for AC?

UV light destroy microbes in air conditioners. The lights are installed in your ductwork or near the AC coil, and they destroy microbes like mold, bacteria, fungi, mildew, mold spores and viruses in the line-of-sight of the UV bulb.

Does UV light kill bacteria?


UV Light That Is Safe for Humans but Bad for Bacteria and Viruses. Scientists have known for decades that broad-spectrum UVC light, which has a wavelength of between 200 to 400 nanometers (nm), is highly effective at killing bacteria and viruses by destroying the molecular bonds that hold their DNA together.

Is Duct Cleaning worth it?

Duct cleaning has never been shown to actually prevent health problems. Neither do studies conclusively demonstrate that particle (e.g., dust) levels in homes increase because of dirty air ducts. This is because much of the dirt in air ducts adheres to duct surfaces and does not necessarily enter the living space.

How do you install a UV light for water treatment?

5 Things to Remember When Installing Your UV Water Purifier
  1. Use a Wall-Mounting Kit When Installing Your UV Water Purifier.
  2. Install Shut-Off Valves Before & After the Unit to Help with Maintenance.
  3. Install a Drain Pan Underneath the Unit.
  4. Install the UV Unit After Other Treatments.
  5. Keep an Extra Lamp & Quartz Sleeve On Hand.