The Truth About UV Lights in HVAC Systems: Do They Really Work?
If you have heard of UV lights for HVAC systems, you may wonder if they’re worth the investment. The short answer here is yes, these systems work quite well to improve the air quality in your home. UV lights attached to your HVAC system help with issues like mold and allergens, improving your home’s indoor air quality (IAQ).
How an HVAC UV Light Works to Clean Your Air
A UV light provides air purification for HVAC systems by emitting ultraviolet (UV-C) radiation. While this is safe for humans and pets, it essentially disrupts the DNA of microscopic pollutants. As these various organisms pass through the UV light, the system neutralizes them. This means organisms such as mold spores cannot propagate through the home.
There are two main types of UV lights used in these systems: coil-sanitizing and air-sanitizing. Coil-sanitizing lights continuously shine on a cooling coil to stop growth where moisture gathers. Then, you have air-sanitizing lights. These are placed in your ductwork to treat the circulating air. These air purification measures both have their benefits.
Benefits of Installing UV Lights in Your HVAC System
When you invest in this technology, you will notice several improvements in your indoor air quality in Illinois. Perhaps the most noticeable of the HVAC UV light benefits is the significant reduction in airborne pollutants. As your household’s air is recycled through your ductwork, the strategically placed system helps to eliminate the threat these organisms pose.
Another major benefit is HVAC mold prevention. These lights render mold spores inert, helping to prevent the spread of mold through your home due to your HVAC system.
Other benefits of UV light filtration include eliminating lingering odors for fresher and cleaner air in your home.
How UV Light Filtration Can Help You Save Money
Over time, microscopic particles will create a biofilm that covers your AC coils. This film can hinder your unit’s performance by restricting airflow and promoting freezing. A UV light filtration system helps to prevent this biofilm from accumulating. This could result in better overall efficiency from your AC. Running more easily and at proper cycles equates to lower energy use. Plus, it helps with seasonal maintenance.
What UV Lights Can & Can’t Do
A UV light in your HVAC system is quite effective, but it’s important to temper your expectations. These systems neutralize the vast majority of microscopic organisms. However, they don’t physically eliminate their presence. Pollen, pet dander, and dust will still accumulate in the home. If you are sensitive to dust, you will still have to clean regularly.
To get the most out of your indoor air quality in Illinois, we recommend a two-pronged plan of attack. Pairing your UV light system with a high-quality media filter is the best approach. A strong filtration system helps keep the air free of these particles.
Professional Maintenance & Longevity
To enjoy the continued benefits of UV lights, you must perform maintenance for the longevity of your device. For instance, the bulbs dim over time and lose their effectiveness. During an HVAC maintenance appointment, we can check out your UV lights as well as your HVAC system. Ensuring everything is in working order helps your system run more efficiently.
Why Choose Professional Installation
It’s important to let a professional handle all the installation and maintenance tasks involved with any HVAC components. To achieve proper air purification in your HVAC system, proper placement of the UV light is key. You can’t just rig up a UV light beside a return register.
We also understand how to size the system, how powerful the lights should be, and other important aspects. Our certified technicians work with you to find the best solution for the IAQ in your home.
Improve Your Indoor Air Quality Today
Cahill Heating, Cooling, Electric, Plumbing & Sewer has served homeowners throughout the greater Chicago area for over 50 years. We have a reputation for prompt, quality workmanship, upfront practices, and customer service. Our company handles a range of air quality solutions for your home, including air purifiers and air scrubbers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, and duct cleaning and sealing. Whatever HVAC service you need, we’re the company to call.
Contact Cahill for more information about UV light systems in the greater Chicago area.
