UV Lights for HVAC, How Do They Clean Air?

Over time, the average American is spending more and more time at home; nearly 90% of their time indoors . As we find ourselves inside more, we need to ask, “how clean is the air in my home?” Unfortunately, your indoor air can be three to five times more polluted than outside air. This indoor air pollution can come from a variety of sources; from scented candles to cleaning and beauty products, they can all contribute to indoor air pollution. Fortunately, there is an easy solution, UV lights! That’s right, UV lights can purify your indoor air making it safe and healthy. But how does it work? Today we’re sharing how UV lights for HVAC work and how they clean your air.

What’s a UV Light?

First, we’ll go over what a UV light is. UV stands for ultraviolet, or a specific type of “electromagnetic radiation.” This UV light is sent through the air and atmosphere in different waves called electromagnetic wavelengths. In very small amounts, UV lights will make a black light poster glow, in higher amounts they can cause a sunburn, and in very high concentrated amounts they can kill bacteria, harmful microorganisms and pathogens lurking in your indoor air. Electromagnetic wavelengths have a scary name, but they’re used in many common devices; think standard lightbulbs, your microwave or an x-ray machine at a hospital. UV light bulbs—especially the ones used in HVAC—are engineered to harness and distribute concentrated amounts of UV electromagnetic wavelengths that will cause damage to the DNA of viruses, bacteria, mold, and other potentially harmful airborne pathogens.

How do UV Lights for HVAC Clean My Indoor Air?

The UV lights used in HVAC systems are engineered for a specific duty. That duty is killing different types of airborne contaminates. These lights have a special name—ultraviolet germicidal irradiation systems or UVGI. UVGI lights use the same UV wavelengths that can cause sunburn, but at a much higher, concentrated level. When bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens pass through the UV wavelengths, they are essentially zapped, or eradicated, making your air cleaner and healthier than before. The UV lights for HVAC used by Bell Brothers can reduce 90% of airborne contaminates, including: E. Coli, Listeria, Staph, Strep, Hep A, Swine Flu, Bird Flu, and MRSA. At this time, our UV lights have not been tested against the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and we cannot say if it kills or prevents that virus. We will update if and when that information becomes available.

How are UV Lights Installed in my HVAC System?

One of the best things about UV lights for HVAC, they’re added on to your existing system. There is no need to buy a new system or have any other large installs. If you make the decision to install a UV light into your HVAC system, it’s nothing more than a simple add on. For central air systems, we generally place our UV light units near the air filter at the start of any ductwork. This ensures that any air going into your home first is purified first by UV wavelengths.

What are my Options?

At Bell Brothers, our favorite UV light option is the Air Scrubber. The Air Scrubber is placed directly in your ductwork, right next to your air filter. The way it works is that it purifies as that air is flowing through your system. When air is pulled into your system, it first passes through your air filter, then from the air filter it goes through your ductwork and into your home. The Air Scrubber ads an extra layer of purification. It scrubs and cleans any airborne contaminants and pathogens before they reach your ductwork. Also, as a bonus, the Air Scrubber can help clear unwanted smells from your home, think cooking or pet smells. If you’re interested in an Air Scrubber, ask your HVAC technician.

Want to Learn how UV Lights for HVAC Can Make a Difference in Your Home?

Call the HVAC experts at Bell Brothers! Our expert technicians can give you advice and point you in the right direction for the best solution. Bell Brothers proudly serves our Sacramento, Stockton, and Vacaville communities. To schedule service, call (916) 226-9677 to speak to one of our friendly customer service representatives. We are here for you.