Ultraviolet (UV) light has been growing as part of the HVAC landscape for years, specifically within the IAQ arena. ASHRAE's validation is certainly a huge step forward for UV, but many manufacturers believe this technology has already proven its value, as its growth and expansion began years ago.

Whether it’s through the use of UV light, whole-home IAQ solutions, or commercial-grade air-filtration equipment, the following case studies showcase ways contractors have solved IAQ problems at both the residential and commercial levels.

Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI), according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, is an established means of disinfection and can be used to prevent the spread of certain infectious diseases. UV-C radiation kills or inactivates microbes by damaging their DNA.

The product delivers ultraviolet energy to destroy coil/drain pan microbial infestations and disinfect moving airstreams in hard-to-service fan coil units, package terminal air conditioner (PTAC) units, and heat pump systems. 

Afpro Filters’ new HQ80A10-6-A+ bag filter and compact filters — PT98-XL, CS85-A-XL, and CS98-A-XL — all meet the requirements set by Eurovent for the A+ energy label. 

RGF Environmental Group is showing its latest product for the HVAC/IAQ industry, the patent-pending BLU QR™ UV-C lamp, designed with input from contractors and featuring the company’s new quick-release replacement lamp system. The BLU-QR stick light allows for no tools lamp replacement.

Those actually responsible for shaping the future of IAQ products have taken notice of the swelling public interest, and trends in the marketplace show products are becoming more interconnected and accessible to the average consumer.

While IAQ can be an integral part of an HVAC installation, not every consumer is aware how or why these products are necessary. That education must come from the contractor. And, those who present solutions through an informal, low-pressure approach seem to have the most success.