UV Filtration
UV Filtration | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Erwin
Breathe easier in Erwin with HEP’s state-of-the-art UV filtration systems integrated seamlessly into your heating and air conditioning. Our certified technicians target the unseen culprits—mold spores, bacteria, and lingering odors—using hospital-grade ultraviolet light, precision air balancing, and ENERGY STAR-approved equipment. The result is a healthier, more comfortable home that lowers utility bills while safeguarding your family’s well-being.
From routine tune-ups to complete system replacements, we design every solution around one clear promise: unmatched ventilation and air quality. Schedule a free indoor air assessment today and discover why neighbors across Unicoi County trust HEP to make every breath feel like mountain air.
FAQs
What exactly is UV filtration and how does it improve indoor air quality?
UV filtration—sometimes called UVGI (ultraviolet germicidal irradiation)—uses UV-C light (wavelength 254 nm) to disrupt the DNA/RNA of microorganisms that pass by the lamp inside your HVAC ductwork. When installed properly it can inactivate up to 99 % of airborne and coil-surface mold spores, bacteria, and many viruses. In Erwin’s warm, humid summers these microbes can multiply quickly on damp cooling coils and circulate through the home. A UV system keeps the coil clean, prevents musty odors, and works alongside your disposable filter to deliver fresher, healthier air.
How is a UV filtration system installed in my existing heating and air-conditioning equipment?
A licensed HVAC technician mounts a compact UV lamp either 1) over the evaporator coil (coil-surface treatment) or 2) inside the supply/return plenum (in-duct air sterilization). The unit is wired to the air handler’s 24- or 120-volt power and normally interlocked with the fan so the lamp runs only when air is moving. Installation requires no major duct modifications and usually takes 1–2 hours. Because everything is contained inside the metal cabinet, there is no impact on airflow or the look of your living space.
Is UV filtration safe for my family, pets, and household materials?
Yes, when the correct ozone-free UV-C bulbs are used and the system is professionally sealed inside the duct, occupants never see or feel the light. Modern fixtures include gasketed viewports, safety interlocks, and labels to prevent accidental exposure during service. The amount of mercury in each bulb is comparable to that in a compact fluorescent lamp and is fully contained. UV-C does not produce significant heat, emit chemicals, or damage plastics, fabrics, or plants outside the air handler.
How often do I need to replace the UV lamp and what maintenance is required?
Most residential UV-C lamps lose germicidal power after about 9,000 operating hours—roughly one year of typical use in Erwin. Coil-surface units that run 24/7 may last 12–24 months. Replacement involves shutting off power, removing the old bulb, inserting a new one, and wiping any dust from the quartz sleeve. Ballasts usually last 3–5 lamp cycles. Many homeowners pair the bulb change with their annual HVAC tune-up so a technician can also inspect wiring, seals, and system airflow.
Will UV filtration help with allergies, asthma, and mold issues common in Erwin?
Absolutely. High humidity in our region encourages mold spores and dust-mite growth. UV-C light continuously disinfects the damp coil where these organisms thrive, preventing them from being blown into living areas. Studies show reductions in airborne mold counts of 60–90 % after UV installation. Fewer spores, bacteria, and microbial VOCs translate to less irritation for allergy and asthma sufferers. For best results, we recommend combining UV with a MERV-11 or higher pleated filter and proper whole-house ventilation to dilute indoor pollutants.
What does a UV filtration system cost and how will it affect my energy bill?
A quality residential UV system in Erwin typically ranges from $350–$800 installed, depending on lamp size, number of bulbs, and whether you choose coil-surface or in-duct treatment. Operating costs are minimal—an 18- to 40-watt lamp adds roughly $2–$4 per month to your electric bill. Because UV keeps the evaporator coil free of biofilm, the HVAC unit can maintain its rated efficiency, which may trim 5–10 % off cooling costs and help the system last longer. Several utilities in Tennessee and North Carolina also offer rebates for indoor air-quality upgrades, further reducing out-of-pocket expense.