GERMICIDAL
UV LIGHTS
IN DURHAM, NC

Scientific studies show UV lights kill mold, viruses and bacteria. Documents show that even back in 1903, Niels Finsen recieved the Noble Prize in Medicine for using UV to treat skin infections. 

Today we use UV light for cleansing hospitals, grocery stores, and restaurants and have now been shown  effective in cleaning HVAC systems. Here are a couple examples: 

1). Duke University Medical Center ran a study in 2012 that showed UV lights kill 97% of bacteria that were antibiotic resistant. 

2). In 2001, The Journal of Applied and Environmental Biology stated that germicidal UV light significantly reduced airborne fungi in AC systems

UV Lights that are installed in HVAC systems are UV Germicidal Irradiation Lights. These are the same lights being used to kill Covid-19 in lab tests. CDC advises that UV intensity and the amount of time the light is on the service are variables in the effectiveness of the light. Since our HVAC Germicidal Lights are, in most cases, on 24/7 they are considered highly effective. 

While tests are still ongoing results heavily appear that these lights clean a wide variety of contaminates. We are here to go over multiple light options that meet your needs, home size and type of system you have.  If you are concerned about your systems cleanliness we recommend giving a professional a call immediately. 

Price varies by brand, size and light strength but the average light for both the coil and air ducts cost between $80 - $125. These lower cost units use one single lamp where those higher priced units use two lamps and include an air filter for air allergens.

The life of each lamp is between 9 to 14 months for the most popular brands. So on average you will be spending $15-$50 per year for new lamps depending on how many lamps you have and the brand.

This cost is well worth the benefits of the elimination of bacteria and fungus and prevent the buildup of organisms that can clog your air handler drains which increases the potential of mold growth. 

UV Lights are just part of the solution to keeping your HVAC system clean and free of contaminants.

Check your filters: Wether you have a washable or disposable filter, make sure you check them regularly to ensure they are clean. If dirty, replace disposable filters or clean reusable ones per the manufacturers instructions. If you have pets we recommend changing your filter once per month or every 6 weeks without pets. Don't forget! Your filter needs changed even when you use the heat! 

Only use high MERV filters. High MERV Filters remove smaller particles then regular filters so there is less debris to get into your HVAC system.  If you have an older system, it might not be compatible with a high MERV filter. Ask your HVAC company or refer to your owners manual for further recommendations. 

You might wonder, Is the cost for a Germicidal UV light worth it? On average, you can expect anywhere from $45-$70 additional energy cost to run your lamp. So, is it worth it? 

Do you or someone in your household have allergies or is sick more then normal? If so, part of the solution could be a Germicidal UV Light in your HVAC system. 

We recommend:

1). Have your systems cleaned and maintained regularly
2). Make sure your ducts are properly and professionally sealed
3). If your system allowed for a high MERV filter, switch to using them
4). Install a UV coil light, the coil is one of the primary locations for growth of fungus in your HVAC system 
5). If you are experiencing severe symptoms, install a UV air sanitizing light in your ducts.