UV Purification
UV Purification | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Newcomb
Breathe easier in Newcomb with HEP’s cutting-edge UV purification solutions, seamlessly integrated into your heating and air conditioning system. Our certified technicians install powerful UV lamps inside your ductwork, neutralizing mold, bacteria, and viruses before they ever reach your living spaces. The result is cleaner air, fewer odors, and a more efficient HVAC system that keeps energy bills in check—no costly filter upgrades or chemical cleaners required.
Beyond UV purification, we optimize ventilation and air quality by balancing airflow, sealing leaks, and fine-tuning humidity levels. Whether your home is a historic charmer or a modern build, HEP tailors each upgrade to match your lifestyle and square footage. Experience the comfort of fresh, healthy air delivered quietly and consistently, then rest easy knowing our 24/7 support team is only a phone call away. Discover why your Newcomb neighbors trust HEP to turn every breath into a refreshing reminder of home.
FAQs
How does a UV air-purification system work and how effective is it against viruses and bacteria?
A UV purification unit uses short-wave ultraviolet light (UV-C, 254 nm) to damage the DNA/RNA of microorganisms that pass in front of the lamp as air circulates through your heating and cooling system. In properly sized and professionally installed systems, independent tests show up to 99 % inactivation of common viruses, bacteria, and mold spores after a single pass. Because the lamp operates continuously whenever the HVAC fan is running, airborne pathogens are neutralized before they can be recirculated into your living spaces.
Where is the UV light installed in my HVAC equipment, and will it interfere with heating or cooling performance?
Most residential and light-commercial systems use an "in-coil" or "in-duct" configuration. In Newcomb homes we typically mount one or two UV lamps downstream of the evaporator coil and above the air handler’s drain pan—areas that stay dark and moist and are prone to biofilm growth. The lamp housing is sealed so no light leaks into occupied areas. Because the device has no moving parts and draws less than 45 W, it does not affect airflow, system capacity, or thermostat operation. Your comfort settings remain exactly the same.
What maintenance do UV lamps require and how often should they be replaced?
UV-C output slowly diminishes as the lamp ages even though the bulb may still appear to be glowing. To maintain germicidal effectiveness you should: • Replace standard lamps every 9-12 months (or 17,000 operating hours). • Wipe the quartz sleeve with alcohol when the air filter is changed to remove dust that can block light. • Confirm the ballast indicator light is on; if it is off, call for service. Most Newcomb customers simply add UV lamp replacement to their annual HVAC tune-up so the cost of parts and labor is bundled into a single service visit.
Will adding UV purification and improved ventilation raise my energy bills?
The UV module itself uses about the same electricity as a household light bulb, adding only $1–$3 per month to the average Newcomb electric bill. Balanced ventilation systems that meet ASHRAE 62.2 guidelines are equipped with high-efficiency ECM fans and smart controls that run only as needed, so any added energy use is typically offset by healthier indoor air and reduced absenteeism or allergy-related healthcare costs. In many cases we can integrate UV and ventilation controls with an existing smart thermostat to optimize runtime and further minimize energy impact.
Are UV purification systems safe for people, pets, and home furnishings?
Yes. The UV-C rays are confined inside the ductwork or air-handler cabinet, so occupants are never exposed to direct radiation. The wavelength used (254 nm) does not generate ozone, and the lamp housings include safety interlocks that shut the lamp off automatically when the access panel is removed. Unlike portable ionizers, in-duct UV systems do not release any by-products into the living space, making them safe for infants, pets, plants, and electronics.
Why is indoor air quality such a concern in Newcomb, and what additional steps can I take besides UV purification?
Newcomb’s coastal climate means homes are closed up for much of the cooling season to keep out heat and humidity, while tighter building envelopes trap indoor pollutants year-round. This can lead to elevated levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), allergens, and biological growth on HVAC coils. Along with UV purification, we recommend: • MERV-13 or higher pleated filters to capture fine particulates. • Energy-recovery ventilators (ERVs) to supply fresh air without losing heating or cooling energy. • Whole-home dehumidification to maintain 45-50 % relative humidity and discourage mold. Combined, these upgrades create a multi-layered defense that keeps Newcomb homes comfortable, efficient, and healthy.