UV Air Scrubbers
UV Air Scrubbers | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Delano
Breathe easier in Delano with HEP’s UV air scrubbers, purpose-built to work hand-in-hand with your heating and air conditioning system. Our hospital-grade lamps zap mold spores, viruses, and stubborn odors as air circulates through your ductwork, transforming every room into a fresher, healthier space without adding noise or hassle. Because the scrubbers are installed inside the HVAC cabinet, there’s no bulky equipment cluttering your living areas—just a continuous flow of clean, conditioned air.
From the moment our Nate-certified technicians arrive, they focus on optimizing ventilation and air quality while safeguarding energy efficiency. We measure airflow, seal hidden leaks, and fine-tune your thermostat settings so the new UV technology performs at peak power and saves you money year-round. Ready to upgrade the comfort of your Delano home or business? Schedule a free in-home assessment with HEP today and discover how effortless pure air can be.
FAQs
What exactly is a UV air scrubber and how does it work in my HVAC system?
A UV air scrubber is a device installed inside the supply plenum or return duct of your heating and air-conditioning system. It uses high-intensity ultraviolet-C (UV-C) light and a catalytic reaction to break down and neutralize airborne contaminants such as viruses, bacteria, mold spores, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). As air cycles through your HVAC system, the UV lamp and catalyst treat the air before it is delivered into your living spaces, providing cleaner, fresher air throughout the home.
Will a UV air scrubber remove viruses, bacteria, and allergens common to Delano and California’s Central Valley?
Yes. The UV-C spectrum has been proven in independent laboratory tests to inactivate up to 99% of many common pathogens, including influenza, rhinovirus, and certain coronaviruses, as well as bacteria such as E. coli and Staphylococcus. In Delano, where seasonal agricultural activity and dust can exacerbate allergies, the scrubber also helps break down mold spores and pollen, significantly reducing allergen levels indoors. While no system can guarantee 100% elimination, a UV air scrubber materially lowers the microbial load in your home’s air.
How is a UV air scrubber installed, and will it restrict airflow or reduce system efficiency?
Installation is usually completed in one service visit. A certified HVAC technician cuts a small opening in the ductwork near the evaporator coil or supply plenum, mounts the scrubber housing, and wires it into the air handler’s power source. The device is designed to create minimal pressure drop—typically less than 0.02" w.c.—so it will not noticeably restrict airflow or compromise your system’s SEER efficiency. In many cases, UV treatment actually keeps the coil cleaner, which can improve heat-transfer efficiency over time.
How often do I need to maintain the UV air scrubber and replace the lamp?
Maintenance is straightforward. UV-C lamps gradually lose intensity and should be replaced every 12–24 months, depending on model and run-time hours. During your regular HVAC tune-up, the technician can check lamp output, clean the quartz sleeve (if equipped), and verify electrical connections. Other than changing the lamp, there are no filters inside the scrubber to replace, making upkeep simple and low-cost.
What does it cost to operate a UV air scrubber, and will it raise my electric bill?
Most residential UV lamps draw between 18 W and 36 W—about the same as an LED light bulb. Running 24/7, the annual energy cost in Delano’s utility rate structure is roughly $15–$30 per year. When balanced against potential savings from fewer doctor visits, reduced allergy medications, and a more efficient HVAC coil, the operating cost is considered minimal.
Is UV air scrubber technology safe for my family, pets, and plants?
Yes, when installed correctly inside sealed HVAC ductwork, the UV-C light is contained and poses no direct exposure risk to occupants, pets, or houseplants. The catalytic process produces no harmful ozone; reputable brands are certified to comply with UL 2998 (zero ozone) standards. A trained technician will ensure the unit is sealed and interlocked with the blower so the lamp only operates when air is moving, guaranteeing safe and effective operation.