Where is the best place to put a UV light in a HVAC system?

Author: Steve Stracke  |  Last update: Monday, June 8, 2026

Where to Install UV Lights for Best Results. Depending on your needs and the system you choose, you may install the UV lights directly in the air handler. In addition to the air handler, you may choose to install them in the air return or in strategic areas throughout the ductwork.

Where should an HVAC UV light be installed?

Determine the Type of Evaporator Coil

In an A-Shaped coil, it is a good rule of thumb to install the UV light above, center, and downstream of the coil. The next best option would be to install the UV light below the coil, but in some cases there may not be enough room.

Should UV light go before or after coil?

Optimal Placement: Ideally, UV lights designed for coil sanitization should be placed close to the evaporator coil itself. This placement ensures that the UV-C rays can directly target the coil surface where microbial growth is most likely to occur.

Where is the best place to put a UV light?

The best place to install a UV light in an AC unit is near the evaporator coil or air handler, where mold and bacteria are most likely to grow. Placing the UV light directly above or adjacent to the evaporator coil helps keep the coil free from microbial buildup, improving system efficiency and air quality.

Where should an UV filter be placed?

The water purifier should be located closest to the point of use, after all other water devices such as de-ionizers, water softeners, filters, reverse osmosis, pressure tanks, and pumps. This reduces the possibility of the purified water being re-contaminated by bacteria in any of these units.

Installing a UV Light and Air Treatment System in an HVAC Unit! STEP BY STEP

Does an UV light go before or after the filter?

- The UV unit should be located indoors. It must not freeze. - Select a point where it will intercept all the incoming mains water. - It should be placed after the water has gone through any other water treatment equipment such as filters or softeners.

Do I need a whole house UV filter?

Whole House UV systems are highly recommended to homeowners who may suspect E. coli, cryptosporidium, giardia or any other types of bacteria and viruses in the water. Ultraviolet (UV) technology is more effective than chemicals in destroying certain waterborne contaminants and is safe and chemical free.

Is a UV light worth it for an HVAC system?

Energy Efficiency: UV lights can improve the system's efficiency by preventing mold and bacteria growth on your HVAC system's coils, leading to lower energy bills.

Will UV light damage an air filter?

Another disadvantage of positioning the UV light in the return air duct would be the exposure of the filter to UV light, possibly causing the filter material to prematurely degrade.

How much to install UV light in HVAC?

In most cases, you should expect to pay somewhere between $200 and $1,000 to purchase the unit and have it installed. After the unit has been installed, you'll then need to pay somewhere around $20 to $100 each year for a new replacement light bulb.

Should HVAC UV light stay on all the time?

They need to run 24/7

For example, UV lights fitted in the air handler will be on all the time.

What is the best UV light for HVAC?

Best UV Lights to Have Installed in HVAC System
  • OdorStop OS144PRO UV Light. OdorStop manufactures one of the top UV lights that can be installed in central HVAC units, mini-split air conditioners, and furnaces. ...
  • D200 UV Lights. ...
  • REKO R2000 UV Light. ...
  • Honeywell UV2400U5000. ...
  • Bio Shield UV Light.

Do HVAC UV lights use a lot of electricity?

No, furnace UV lights do not use a lot of electricity. They typically consume between 15 to 30 watts per bulb, similar to a standard light bulb. This low energy consumption means they have a minimal impact on overall electricity usage, making them an energy-efficient option for improving indoor air quality.

Does UV light damage AC coils?

Although UV-C light has no effect on the metals used to make HVAC coils such as copper and aluminum, it does have the potential to break down coatings used to protect the coils from environmental corrosion that can be experienced in coastal, urban, agricultural, wastewater treatment, food processing, transit, and ...

Can you install UV light in duct board?

• Duct Board

A general comment not related to UV exposure - due to the lack of strength of the duct board material, we do not recommend mounting UV devices on a vertical duct board surface without additional structural supports.

Does UV light destroy mold?

This method is commonly used in HVAC systems with UV lamps to inhibit mold growth on coils and within ducts. Here are the key advantages of using UV light over other methods: Efficiency and effectiveness: UV light has been proven to be highly effective in killing mold.

Can I leave a UV filter on all the time?

The extra glass element can cause the light to create unwanted flares or aberrations. Having a camera lens UV filter in your camera bag is never a bad idea. However, it is unnecessary to leave one on your lens at all times.

What are the pros and cons of UV light?

The beneficial effects of UV radiation include the production of a vital nutrient, vitamin D. However, overexposure may present risks. Sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer are all risks to overexposure. Keeping you and others protected from UV radiation is an important year-round.

What is the life expectancy of a UV light for HVAC?

Most manufacturers recommend that you replace your UV lamp every 9,000 hours or approximately every 12 months. An annual replacement schedule is also recommended for those suffering from allergies and other respiratory conditions.

How to prevent mold in HVAC system?

4 tips for preventing mold in ductwork
  1. With the right conditions, mold can grow in your home's cooling and heating ductwork. ...
  2. Keep furniture away from vents. ...
  3. Keep moisture at bay. ...
  4. Keep HVAC ducts clean to prevent mold in ductwork. ...
  5. Have King install the right HVAC system for your home.

What size UV light do I need for my HVAC system?

To calculate the required UV light intensity for your HVAC system, multiply your airflow rate (in cubic feet per minute or CFM) by 12. This will give you the minimum UV light intensity needed in microwatts per square centimeter (μW/cm²) for your system.

What is the disadvantage of using UV filters?

Does Not Remove All Impurities- A UV filter will remove bacteria and viruses but is not effective on dissolved impurities such as rust, pesticides, fluoride, arsenic, etc. Moreover, they are not effective on muddy water. Chemical treatment may still be required after the UV filtration is complete.

Is a UV light necessary for HVAC?

If you are concerned about the quality of your indoor air, upgrading to a UV light system will improve the energy efficiency of your HVAC system while also reducing your energy costs.

How long does a UV filter light last?

How often do I need to change my UV lamp? UV lamps should be replaced once every 12 months. UV lamps have a lifespan of approximately 9,000 hours. Calculated out, this means the lamp can operate for about 375 days before requiring a replacement.

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