Understanding UV Air Handlers: What They Are and How They Work

If you are in the market for air quality solutions, you may have come across something called a UV air handler. But what is it exactly? Do you need one for your home or business? Keep reading to understand what a UV air handler is and how it works so that you can make an informed decision about whether to invest in one.

What Is a UV Air Handler?

A UV air handler is a type of air filtration system designed to improve indoor air quality by using ultraviolet light to kill harmful bacteria, mold, and viruses. The system typically consists of an ultraviolet lamp installed in the HVAC ducts of a building. This lamp emits ultraviolet light that kills any airborne contaminants as they pass through the ducts. The result is cleaner, healthier indoor air that can help reduce health risks associated with poor indoor air quality.

How Does a UV Air Handler Work?

The UV air handler works by using ultraviolet light in the C-band spectrum, also known as UV-C. This specialized wavelength of light is able to pass through the cell membrane of certain microorganisms, making contact with the virus or bacteria’s genetic material. This destroys the bacteria and prevents it from reproducing. As a result, the harmful pathogens are unable to survive and their impact is reduced; eventually, they die altogether. By using this method of disinfecting the air, home occupants are afforded greater protection than just maintenance methods like cleaning or changing filters.

Different Types of UV Lights

There are two main types of UV lights used in HVAC systems — coil sterilization and air sterilization. Let’s take a closer look at these two types of UV lights and how they work to improve air quality.

Coil Sterilization

Coil sterilization uses UV lamps that are mounted near the evaporator coil inside the air handler. By placing them near the coil, these lamps can help prevent mold and bacteria from forming on the surface of the coil.

Air Sterilization

The second type of UV light is air sterilization, which is installed in the return air duct. This kind of HVAC air purifier is wired into your HVAC system so it turns on only when your system is running, and it works to sterilize the air before it gets pulled into your system. Air sterilization helps get rid of microorganisms like dust mites, bacteria, and viruses from your indoor environment. It also helps eliminate any odors that may be present in the circulating air, leaving you with fresh-smelling, clean indoor air that you can enjoy all year long.

The Benefits of Using a UV Air Handler

We live in an age where indoor air quality is of the utmost importance. With so many pollutants and allergens circulating in the air, it’s essential to ensure that you have access to clean, fresh air indoors. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of using a UV air handler.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

UV air handlers are designed to reduce the presence of airborne pollutants and microorganisms in indoor air, making it healthier and more comfortable for those living or working in the environment. This can be especially beneficial for those with allergies, asthma, and other respiratory issues. By targeting bacteria, viruses, and mold spores that get trapped in the ventilation ducts, UV air handlers offer a highly effective way to improve overall indoor air quality.

Reduced Spread of Bacteria and Viruses

UV technology has been proven to be extremely effective at reducing the spread of potentially harmful bacteria and viruses. By targeting these particles directly in the air system, UV air filters can help reduce the risk of infection from airborne pathogens that are easily spread through coughing or sneezing. This makes it an important part of any workplace health and safety program.

Elimination of Odors

Not only do UV air handlers effectively reduce airborne contaminants, but they also eliminate unpleasant odors that can linger in indoor areas. Through a process called photocatalytic oxidation (PCO), UV light breaks down odor-causing molecules, which improves indoor air quality significantly.

Reduced Energy Costs

Dust particles are not the only things that can reduce airflow in your home HVAC system. Pathogens such as bacteria and mold can also build up on the evaporator coil, leading to a decrease in efficiency. This might require you to keep your HVAC running more frequently and longer. Investing in a UV air handler can be the answer. This equipment will inhibit the growth of these contaminants, which in turn leads to reduced energy bills alongside better overall airflow.

Enhanced Equipment Longevity

Keeping your HVAC components in top shape is essential if you want to make sure they last the test of time. Over time, mold can form on the evaporator coils, causing you to run your system for longer periods than necessary in order to achieve desired temperatures. This puts added strain on the components of your HVAC, leading to premature failure and a system that won’t give you the performance you need. Installing a UV air handler helps minimize these issues by combatting the buildup of mold on evaporator coils and other components, contributing significantly to prolonging the longevity of your HVAC system.

Improved Staff Productivity

When workers feel comfortable within their workplace environment, their productivity levels tend to increase significantly. This is because fresh clean filtered air is essential for maintaining healthy cognitive function and morale among individuals who spend long hours indoors. Implementing a comprehensive strategy including both filtration and UV sterilization systems can help ensure that everyone is kept safe from potential airborne contaminants.

Common Issues With UV Air Handlers

Like any piece of machinery, UV air handlers can develop issues over time. Understanding the most common issues and how to fix them can help you ensure that your UV air handler remains in top condition and continues to perform optimally.

Power Failure

Power failure is usually caused by a problem with the wiring or a malfunctioning component such as a fuse or breaker switch. To diagnose this issue, call a professional to check all wiring connections and replace any faulty components, if necessary.

Filter Problems

Filter clogging or buildup can happen in your air handler. This will lead to reduced airflow and increased energy costs, as discussed earlier. Cleaning your filters regularly is one way to avoid this issue.

Reduced Effectiveness Due to Duct Leaks

Air handlers are typically installed in a basement or attic. With the help of UV light, air handlers cleanse the air from microorganisms as it passes through the device. The blower in the air handler then pumps sterilized air into ducts. Unfortunately, if these ducts contain leaky seams, they may draw in new contaminants along their route, which defeats the purpose of using a UV light in the first place. Routine maintenance on all parts of an HVAC system is, therefore, important when using a UV light-equipped unit.

Call Professionals Today!

At Christian Brothers Air Conditioning Plumbing Electrical, we provide the highest quality plumbing, heating, cooling, and electric services for our valued customers in Glendale and the surrounding areas. Our team is dedicated to exceptional service and results that you can depend on – no matter how big or small your project may be. Call Christian Brothers Air Conditioning Plumbing Electrical today to learn more about our services.

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