Microbial contamination in HVAC systems is common in hot and humid regions like Birmingham, Alabama. These conditions cause the evaporator coils to become wet. UV air purifiers can effectively protect your home from microbes like spores, bacteria, and viruses.

How Do UV Lights Work?

There are two different types of UV lights. They both kill microbes that develop in your HVAC and pollute indoor air:

  • Coil sterilization lights are stick-type units that operate 24/7. They’re installed in your HVAC’s return air duct where they sterilize the air handler coil. The coil and the drain pan are where most microbial growth originates.
  • Air sterilization lights kill airborne contaminants. They’re installed in the return air duct and operate in sync with the air handler. The lights neutralize airborne microbes as indoor air is forced through your HVAC and over the UV lights.

Why Install UV Air Cleaners?

These lights can prevent illness by zapping viruses, spores, and bacteria that make you sick. Because they kill airborne fungal spores, they’re especially helpful for those who suffer from asthma, allergies, infectious diseases, and chronic pulmonary conditions. A 1996 study showed that in homes susceptible to fungus, UV lights significantly reduced fungal levels in the air and in air-handling units. A 2012 study showed that UV lights eliminated drug-resistant bacteria in hospital rooms by more than 97 percent.

Are UV Air Purifiers All I Need for Healthy Indoor Air?

UV lights only kill airborne contaminants. They won’t get rid of pollutants that are lurking in the carpet or on the surfaces in your home. Although UV air cleaners are a highly-effective defense against bacteria and viruses, they won’t eliminate allergens like pet dander and dust mites.

At One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating, we offer a variety of IAQ products to keep the air in your Birmingham, Alabama, home clean and healthy. Visit us online or call us at (205) 690-4145 if you have any questions.