UV Lights in Your HVAC System? Here's Everything You Need to Know

Want to breathe easier in your home? Air quality improvement products can help you get rid of the invisible contaminants that can affect your health.

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UV light for HVAC systems is one option that you can install to improve the air quality.

What Do HVAC UV Lights Do?

UV light HVAC systems use special UV lights to clean and sanitize the air in your home. Even if you can't see it, the air in your home has all types of germs and allergens floating around in it. This can increase the chances of you getting sick or having allergy symptoms.

An HVAC UV light uses special UV-C light. It's a short-wave ultraviolet light that kills or deactivates various microbes. There are two main types of UV light HVAC systems. Coil-sanitizing lights typically go near the evaporator coil in your AC system. This type of light stays on all the time. Air-sanitizing lights sit in the supply vents and sanitize the air before it runs through the ducts and into the vents throughout your home. They're often wired to turn on and off with the blower motor in the system, so they don't operate all the time.

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Are They Effective?

UV light is effective at killing microbes. However, furnace ultraviolet lights might not kill all the germs in your home. They can reduce the risk of you catching some illnesses, cut down on mold growth and limit allergy or asthma symptoms.

It's important to maintain the UV lights for HVAC use to keep them as effective as possible. Check the bulbs regularly to see if they need to be changed. It's also important to clean the light bulbs three or four times a year. Dust can reduce the strength of the UV rays and make the light less effective. Shut off the lights before cleaning them, and wipe them gently with a soft cloth.

How Much Do They Cost to Install?

A UV light for HVAC systems typically costs between $200 and $700 (CAD 265 and CAD 926) for the equipment and installation. You also have some ongoing costs, including replacement bulbs, which could cost you $10 to $75 (CAD 13 to CAD 99). The bulbs typically last about one year. UV light HVAC systems also increase your energy consumption, potentially adding $15 to $30 (CAD 20 to CAD 40) to your electric bill each month.

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Should You Get a UV Light for HVAC Use?

Deciding whether to get a UV light HVAC system depends on your situation. If you have a family member who has allergies or is particularly susceptible to illnesses, you might consider installing the UV lights. Your budget is also a consideration. Make sure you're prepared for the ongoing expenses if you're considering a UV light for your furnace.

Other Air Quality Options

Whether or not you choose to install a furnace and AC UV light, there are other methods of cleaning the air and improving your air quality. Upgrade to an HVAC filter with a higher MERV rating, which rates the size of particles and efficiency of removing them. This can help pull more particles from the air as it circulates normally through the system. It's also important to clean or change your filters frequently so they can work effectively.

Making repairs and upgrades to your home can also help. Sealing your ductwork can keep contaminants out of the system. Improved ventilation in your home can also improve air quality. Working with a professional HVAC company is a good way to find the best solutions for your home. They can conduct testing and determine the causes of poor air quality in your home. You can choose from a variety of customized solutions they offer based on your situation.

All CAD conversions are based on the exchange rate on the date of publication.