UV-light Purification
UV-light Purification | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Decatur
When Decatur’s weather swings from sticky afternoons to frosty mornings, HEP keeps your indoor climate comfortable — and your air pristine. Our UV-light purification technology installs right inside your heating and air conditioning equipment, bathing every passing particle in germ-destroying light. Mold spores, bacteria, and stubborn odors are neutralized before they ever reach your living spaces, so every breath feels like a fresh start.
Pair that power with expertly balanced ventilation and air quality solutions, and you gain a home environment that’s healthier, safer, and noticeably easier to breathe. From attic to crawl space, we optimize airflow pathways, seal hidden leaks, and match high-efficiency filters to your unique needs, ensuring the clean air produced by our UV lamps circulates evenly and stays refreshingly pure all year long.
FAQs
How does a UV-light purification system work inside my HVAC unit?
Germicidal UV-C lamps are mounted inside the air-handler cabinet—usually near the evaporator coil and/or in the supply plenum. As air cycles through the system, the 254-nm wavelength light penetrates the cell walls of microorganisms, disrupting their DNA so they can no longer reproduce or cause illness. Because the lamp runs continuously, every pass of air through the coil chamber receives a brief but lethal dose of UV energy, preventing mold from growing on wet coils and keeping the airstream cleaner before it is delivered to your living spaces.
What types of indoor air contaminants can UV lights remove?
UV-C technology is most effective against organic contaminants such as viruses (including influenza and common cold strains), bacteria, mold spores, and biofilm that forms on coils and drain pans. While UV does not physically trap dust or pet dander, it prevents microbial growth that can attach to those particles and spread through the ductwork. When UV lamps are combined with a quality MERV 11–13 filter, the system can tackle both biological threats and particulate matter for overall better air quality.
Will adding UV lights increase my energy bills or harm my HVAC equipment?
A residential germicidal lamp typically draws about 15–30 watts—roughly the same as an LED light bulb—so the cost to operate is only $1–$2 per month. In many cases, energy consumption actually drops because cleaner coils transfer heat more efficiently, allowing the compressor and blower to run shorter cycles. The lamps are engineered for HVAC applications and are installed in a way that shields plastic, wiring, and insulation from direct exposure, so there is no risk of damage when installed correctly by a professional.
How often should the UV lamps be replaced in Decatur’s humid climate?
UV-C output degrades gradually, so manufacturers rate lamps for 9,000 operating hours—about one year of continuous operation. Because Decatur experiences high humidity that can accelerate mold growth, we recommend annual replacement during your spring or fall HVAC tune-up. The service takes about 15 minutes, and the technician will also wipe down the lamp housing, inspect ballasts, and verify that the safety interlock switch is functioning.
Can UV purification help with allergies, asthma, or lingering household odors?
Yes. By neutralizing mold spores and bacteria before they circulate, UV systems reduce the biological allergens that often trigger asthma and allergy attacks. Homeowners frequently notice fewer musty odors as coil and drain-pan slime is eliminated. For severe odor issues—such as pet smells, smoke, or VOCs—pairing the UV light with an activated-carbon media filter or a photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) module provides an extra layer of deodorization.
Do I need professional installation, and what does a UV system typically cost in Decatur?
Professional installation is strongly recommended to ensure the lamp is positioned for maximum exposure without stray UV leaking into your ductwork. A licensed HVAC technician will confirm electrical compatibility, install a service switch, and label the access panel to meet local code. In the Decatur area, a single-lamp coil-sanitizing system averages $350–$550 installed, while a dual-lamp air-stream system ranges from $650–$900. Most units come with a limited three- or five-year ballast warranty, and many utility companies offer small rebates for indoor air quality upgrades.