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HVAC Education, Buying Tips, Indoor Air Quality, UV Lamps

What are UV Lamps Used for in A/C Systems?

By Travis Baugh

An ultraviolet (UV) lamp can be added to your existing HVAC system and is installed in the evaporator coil or ductwork near the coil. Unlike air purifiers, which just filter out contaminants, ultraviolet lights for ac systems help clean the coil by killing bacteria, mold, and mildew so they do not become airborne and circulate throughout your home.

How DOES A UV LIGHT FOR AC WORK?

UV light is a form of radiation—it’s also present in sunlight. In concentrated forms, it efficiently kills bacteria, mold, and mildew. A UV lamp made for your air conditioner looks like a fluorescent light tube. When installed inside the condenser, the light shines directly on the coil and helps prevent the buildup of harmful contaminants.

a woman researches UV light for AC on her phone

WHAT ARE UV LAMPS GOOD FOR?

UV lamps in AC systems can improve air quality by killing bacteria, viruses, and mold spores, reducing allergens, and preventing mold and mildew growth on the coils. This helps maintain system efficiency, extends the equipment's lifespan, and reduces maintenance costs. Additionally, UV lamps can eliminate odors caused by biological contaminants, resulting in fresher indoor air.

Is it safe to have a UV lamp?

Yes, it is generally safe to have UV lights in your hvac, provided it is used correctly and installed by a professional. Here are some important considerations to ensure safety:

  • Correct Placement: UV lamps should be installed in a location where they can effectively target the coils and air handler surfaces without exposing inhabitants to direct UV light.
  • Proper Shielding: Ensure that the UV lamp is properly shielded to prevent UV light from escaping into living spaces, as direct exposure to UV-C light can be harmful to skin and eyes.
  • Replace Bulbs as Needed: UV bulbs lose their effectiveness over time and should be replaced by a trained technician according to the manufacturer's recommendations, typically every 12 to 24 months.
  • Clean and Inspect: Regular maintenance of the UV lamp and HVAC system by a trained technician helps ensure optimal performance and safety.
  • Professional Installation: Professional installation of UV lights for hvac systems by your local Carrier dealer is crucial for ensuring both safety and effectiveness.

What are the Benefits of a UV LIGHT FOR HVAC SYSTEM?

Installing a UV lamp in your AC system’s evaporator coil kills contaminants that can grow in moist environments, like bacteria, mold, and mildew. Eliminating these can result in:

  • Increased energy efficiency for your HVAC system
  • Improved indoor air quality
  • Reduced allergens circulating within your home.
  • Reduce unwanted odors.
  • Helping to extend your equipment lifespan

a carrier dealer talks to a homeowner about UV light for HVAC systems

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Frequently Asked Questions About UV Lights For AC
No, UV light does not damage AC coils when installed correctly by a professional. In fact, UV lights are used to keep the evaporator coils clean by preventing the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria, which can accumulate on the coils over time. This helps maintain the efficiency of the AC system.
Yes, UV lights for AC systems can be worth it, especially for improving indoor air quality. UV lights help eliminate mold, bacteria, and other microorganisms that can accumulate on the AC coils and in the air handler, leading to cleaner air and more efficient cooling. They can reduce allergens, prevent mold growth, and enhance system performance by keeping coils cleaner.
The cost of a UV light for an AC unit typically ranges from $100 to $500, depending on the type and brand. Basic UV lights designed for coil sterilization are usually on the lower end of the range, while more advanced systems that target both air and surface disinfection can be more expensive.
The best place to install a UV light in an AC unit is near the evaporator coil or air handler, where mold and bacteria are most likely to grow. Placing the UV light directly above or adjacent to the evaporator coil helps keep the coil free from microbial buildup, improving system efficiency and air quality. Professional installation is recommended to ensure proper placement and protection of sensitive parts.
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