UV Purification
UV Purification | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Alcoa
Feel the difference every time you step inside your Alcoa home with HEP’s advanced UV purification solutions seamlessly integrated into our heating and air conditioning systems. By neutralizing airborne pathogens and stubborn odors at the source, our UV technology works around the clock to keep your ducts pristine and your family breathing easier—no matter how hot, humid, or pollen-laden East Tennessee can get.
From whole-home air exchangers that whisk away stale indoor air to precision humidity control that stops mold in its tracks, our certified technicians design custom strategies focused on ventilation and air quality. Ready to upgrade comfort, safeguard health, and lower energy bills all at once? Give HEP a call today and discover why Alcoa homeowners trust us to turn every room into a fresh-air sanctuary.
FAQs
How does a UV air purification system work within my HVAC unit?
A UV (ultraviolet) air purifier is installed inside the air-handling section or return plenum of your HVAC system. As air passes through the ductwork, it is exposed to germicidal UV-C light (typically 253.7 nm), which deactivates the DNA and RNA of microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, and mold spores. Because the light is contained inside the metal cabinet or duct, it treats the moving air without adding chemicals or ozone, helping to deliver cleaner, healthier air throughout your entire Alcoa home.
Is UV purification effective against viruses, bacteria, and mold in Alcoa’s humid climate?
Yes. Numerous laboratory studies show that properly sized UV-C lamps can inactivate up to 99.9 % of airborne pathogens. Alcoa’s warm, often humid conditions can accelerate mold growth inside coils and drain pans, but a UV system mounted near the evaporator coil continuously bathes these moisture-prone surfaces in germicidal light, preventing biofilm buildup and keeping the coil clean. This not only improves indoor air quality (IAQ) but also restores HVAC efficiency that is otherwise lost to microbial fouling.
Will adding a UV light to my HVAC system increase my energy bills?
A residential UV lamp typically consumes about 15–30 watts—roughly the same as an LED light bulb. The cost to operate is usually less than $2–$4 per month. In fact, because UV-treated coils stay cleaner, the system can exchange heat more efficiently, which may offset the lamp’s power draw by reducing compressor runtime and lowering overall energy use.
How is a UV purification system installed and will it fit my existing HVAC equipment?
Most UV kits are designed for retrofit. During installation, a technician drills a small hole in the duct or air-handler panel, mounts the UV fixture, and wires it to a nearby 120 V or 24 V power source. The job usually takes 1–2 hours with minimal disruption. Before installation, our Alcoa-based IAQ specialists measure the duct dimensions, airflow rate, and coil size to select the correct lamp intensity and configuration for your specific furnace, heat pump, or packaged unit.
What maintenance do UV HVAC lights require and how often should bulbs be replaced?
Maintenance is simple: replace the UV bulb about once every 9,000 hours (roughly 12 months of continuous use) because UV output gradually diminishes even if the lamp still glows. During your regular HVAC tune-up, the technician will also wipe the quartz sleeve, check electrical connections, and verify that the safety interlock (if equipped) is functioning. Keeping the surrounding air filter clean will further maximize the germicidal effectiveness of the UV system.
Are UV purification systems safe for my family, pets, and HVAC components?
When professionally installed inside sealed ductwork, UV-C light is completely contained and cannot reach occupants or pets. The wavelength used is non-ionizing and produces no measurable ozone. Fixtures are equipped with gaskets and safety switches to prevent accidental exposure during service. UV-C also poses no harm to metal or plastic HVAC components when installed at correct distances. Always choose a reputable contractor to ensure the unit is properly rated and installed for safety and compliance with local Alcoa codes.