(602) 842-0009

All Articles

Are UV Lights for HVAC Systems Worth It?

Digital blue 3D block with a blue sun and the letters UV in the center.

Your home's HVAC system plays a crucial role in circulating air and maintaining a comfortable environment for you and your family. It's not just about temperature control; it's also about ensuring the air you breathe is clean. While standard air filters are integral to HVAC systems, you might be considering enhancing air purification with additional features like UV lights. If you're pondering whether UV lights are a worthwhile investment for your HVAC system, the answer is a resounding yes. In this article, we will delve into the world of UV lights for HVAC systems, covering:

We'll explore how UV lights complement your existing air filters to elevate air quality in your home. Join us as we weigh the benefits against the costs, helping you decide how this addition could affect your budget and maintenance routine.

Want to Learn More About Your Air Quality Options?

As the most trusted HVAC company in the Phoenix area, George Brazil Air Conditioning & Heating technicians are the experts in finding the perfect solution to handle your air quality needs. We understand how important it is for your family to breathe clean air, and we have more than 2,000 5-star reviews to prove our commitment to your satisfaction.

The Pros

Cleaner air is always a good thing, so installing a UV light for AC to complement the job your standard air filters are already doing is hard to argue against. There are several ways this decision can improve your quality of life.

Improved Air Quality

Standard air filters are used to catch particles suspended in your home's air. This is an excellent solution to pollen, pet dander, and dust that can irritate your respiratory system. They can also stop airborne viral particles from passing through. UV light actually kills viruses, so any that slip through the filter are unlikely to cause illness.

Mold and Bacteria Prevention

UV light also neutralizes mold spores and bacteria. This prevents your system from spreading mold and bacteria through your home and assists in keeping your ducts and coils free from these harmful organisms as well.

Energy Efficiency

The prevention of mold and bacteria on your system's coils allows the surface to remain clear to do its job efficiently. This saves you on energy expenses.

Extended Equipment Life

Improved efficiency means less work required by your HVAC system, which can extend the life of your units and the components within.

Odor Reduction

Mold, mildew, and bacteria can all give off unpleasant odors. Having a UV light installed to kill these organisms eliminates the smell they create, leaving you with fresher, odor-free air to breathe.

The Cons

Along with all the benefits a UV light for HVAC can bring, it's important to note the few drawbacks so you can prepare. Although these can seem inconvenient, they are far outweighed by improving your air quality.

Upfront Cost

UV light installation can come with a steep price tag that may be uncomfortable for your budget. However, this decision will pay for itself by extending the life of your system.

Limitations

UV lights can only neutralize the living particles that pass through the rays and cannot remove contaminants from the air. This is why they should be used alongside traditional filters rather than as a replacement.

Maintenance Requirements

UV light bulbs must be changed regularly, so this item must be added to your HVAC maintenance schedule. On average, bulbs last around 14 months and should also be wiped clean of dust a few times per year.

The Importance of Professional Advice

If you're thinking about adding UV light to your HVAC system, getting advice from a professional should be your first step. They can identify the best places to install your new lights to maximize their effectiveness, suggest what kind of lights you need, and give you an idea of what installation will look like. You'll also have the opportunity to get any questions you might have answered and learn which maintenance items are safe to handle on your own and which ones need to be handled by an expert. A professional can also explain safety protocols to ensure your UV lights improve your air without causing harm to you.

Need Advice On Adding UV Lights to Your HVAC System?

Trust the experts at George Brazil Heating & Cooling to guide you in improving your air quality. We treat our customers like family, so we'll never give you advice that we wouldn't give to our own kin.