AC units are ideal for creating cool indoor temperatures and for eliminating humidity – which is great for preventing mold growth. On the other hand, all kinds of bacteria and even mold spores sometimes enter our homes through these very same ac units. A practical solution to this problem is to get a UV light for your AC unit. Here we will discuss the benefits of having one installed and review two such products.
Topics Covered
- The benefits
- How does it work?
- Energy consumption
- Maintenance requirements
- The best AC UV lights
- The Bio-Shield UV-C Air Sanitizer
- The Celiwace 50 Watt UVC Light
- REKO Lighting R2000
What are the benefits of installing a UV-light in your AC unit?
A better performing and cleaner AC unit: Bio-film, which is bacterial growth, and even mold tends to build up and grow on the various internal components. Not only do these mold spores and bacteria enter your home where they will make people and pets sick, but they also interfere with how your AC functions.
It puts more stress on the internal components, which results in higher energy usage, and these components are more likely to fail before their time. And because there will be no build-up and filth inside your system with a UV light installed, the components will keep functioning as they should.
Less cleaning: Because there is no bacterial or mold build-up in your HVAC and air vents, there will be less need to clean as it will stay cleaner for a lot longer.
Healthier indoor environment: Mold and bio-film build-up in ac units causes all sorts of airborne contaminants to enter your home. These create a range of health issues such as allergies, headaches, indoor mold infestations, the worsening of asthma problems, and in more severe cases, long term neurological issues. UV lights kill off the spores and bacteria that cause these health implications.
How does it work?
Coil sterilizers are the most common type of AC UV lights and is a single blue stick-shaped light that gets installed near the coils.
Its primary function is to protect the coils and other various AC components from mold and bacteria build-up, which is extremely beneficial because your ac unit will remain much cleaner for longer, which means less maintenance and better performance.
Any contaminants that enter the ac unit first passes by the UV light, which kills it first. It’s so effective that more and more hospitals are starting to use it.
It also means that a lot fewer germs and bacteria will make their way into your home. However, it must be noted that some bacteria and mold spores, although dead, will still make their way into your living space. Fortunately, germs and bacteria that do enter your home won’t be able to make you sick. The mold spores, on the other hand, although not able to colonize and spread, will still cause allergic reactions in susceptible people. An easy solution to this problem is use HEPA filtered air purifier and vacuum cleaners indoors.
Energy consumption
Energy consumption is surprisingly low, as most of these lights operate at a mere 25W or less. In case you’re wondering – if you leave the light running 24/7, it equates to around $2 per month. A small price to pay considering the money you will be saving on maintenance and repairs of your AC unit and not to mention a much healthier living environment.
Maintenance requirements
The only maintenance required for UV lights is that you change the bulb. However, don’t wait for the light to stop working before replacing it because the longer it burns, the less UV it puts out. To keep it functioning optimally, replace the bulb every 18 months.
The best AC UV lights
Thinking of getting one? Then check out the three best AC UV lights.
Bio-Shield UV-C Air Sanitizer
Harnesses the power of UV-C light to effectively kill bacteria, viruses, allergens, and mold, and create a much healthier environment for you and your family.
It uses only 20 watts, so it is extremely energy-efficient and cost-effective. And best of all.. it’s easy to install.
Once installed, it kills contaminants that often cause mold, flu, allergies, and sinus infections. It also removes bio-film on AC coils, which boosts the efficiency of your air conditioning system and reduces your energy costs.
The light weighs 1 pound and has dimensions of 18 x 4 x 4 inches.
Celiwace 50 Watt UVC Light Bulb for Air Condition System
This UVC light, with its 50 watt bulb, offers a higher level of protection compared to most other brands on the market.
The bulbs emit a 253.7nm wavelength light which is specifically designed to neutralize airborne bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens, leaving your indoor environment clean and safe.
Installation is easy and can be completed in 15 minutes or less. Simply follow the included template, cut two holes in your duct-work, slide the lamp inside, and plug it into the convenient 6 ft cord. It’s that easy!
This is a quality product that comes with a one-year warranty. Additionally, the manufacturer offers a 90-day return policy.
The product has dimensions of 7 x 4.5 x 7 inches and weighs 2.27 pounds.
REKO Lighting R2000
The REKO Lighting R2000 with its 1500 watts delivers exceptional performance in sanitizing and purifying your air conditioner and the air in your home or office.
The bulbs, which are made in Europe, operates at a wavelength of 253.7NM, which is known for its effectiveness in eliminating bacteria, viruses, and other harmful pathogens.
It’s designed to be installed in your HVAC duct, and integrates seamlessly with your existing system. Its versatile design makes it suitable for air systems ranging from 1 to 5 tons, making it suitable for a wide range of residential and commercial applications.
Installation is easy and only takes 15 minutes or less. The package includes a template for cutting two 1.75-inch holes in your ductwork. Simply slip the lamps inside, secure them with the self-drilling screws provided, and plug in the unit in using the 10-ft power cord. It has a power rating of 120V and can easily be connected to any regular electric outlet.
The product has dimensions of 8.15 x 6.46 x 4.65 inches and weighs 1.3 pounds.
More Information
The best air conditioners reviewed
How to remove mold from air conditioners