Reducing Airborne Contaminants Within Your HVAC System

UV light air purification system installation and service in Bozeman for cleaner ductwork and improved air quality.

If mold or mildew odors emerge from your Bozeman home's supply vents, or if you have persistent respiratory concerns despite regular filter changes, biological contaminants may be growing inside your ductwork or air handler. Moisture that accumulates on cooling coils, drain pans, and interior duct surfaces during air conditioning season creates conditions where mold, bacteria, and viruses can thrive and spread throughout your home each time the system runs.


Granite Peak Mechanical Services installs UV light air purification systems that mount directly inside your ductwork or air handler, targeting the areas where microbial growth is most common. The ultraviolet light disrupts the DNA of airborne and surface contaminants, preventing them from reproducing and reducing their presence in circulated air. Installation includes mounting the UV lamp near the cooling coil or in the return duct, wiring it to operate whenever the system fan runs, and securing all components to prevent light exposure outside the unit.


Learn more about UV air purification options for your Bozeman or Livingston property.

What UV Light Does Inside Your Air Handler

Your UV light installation begins with selecting a lamp type and placement based on your HVAC configuration and the specific contaminants you want to address. In Bozeman, most residential installations use a single UV-C lamp mounted above the cooling coil in the air handler, where moisture and organic material collect during cooling season. The lamp remains on continuously or operates in sync with the system fan, depending on your preference and usage patterns.

After installation, you will notice that musty odors dissipate, and the cooling coil stays cleaner between service visits. The UV light does not filter particles from the air, but it reduces the biological load on surfaces within the system, which improves airflow and prevents the spread of airborne contaminants into living spaces.

Routine maintenance includes replacing the UV lamp annually, as its germicidal effectiveness diminishes over time even if the bulb still produces visible light. The system does not require cleaning or filter replacement, and it operates silently with minimal electrical consumption. It works best in combination with standard filtration or electronic air cleaners, which remove the particles that UV light cannot.

What you should know before adding UV to your system

Homeowners often want to understand what UV light does and does not address, how it affects system performance, and whether it poses any safety concerns. The following provides direct answers based on installations and real-world performance in both residential and commercial settings.

What contaminants does a UV light system target?
UV-C light disrupts the DNA of bacteria, viruses, mold spores, and other microorganisms, preventing them from reproducing. It does not remove dust, pollen, or chemical pollutants, which require mechanical filtration or activated carbon treatment.
How does UV light improve HVAC system performance?
By preventing mold and biofilm growth on the cooling coil, the UV lamp maintains better airflow and heat transfer efficiency. A clean coil requires less energy to cool your home and reduces the likelihood of drain pan clogs or moisture-related damage inside the air handler.
Why do I need to replace the UV lamp every year?
UV-C lamps lose germicidal strength over time, even if they still emit visible light. Replacing the lamp annually ensures consistent disinfection performance and prevents recontamination of the coil or ductwork.
What safety precautions are necessary with UV light systems?
The UV lamp is enclosed within the ductwork or air handler, so you are not exposed to the light during normal operation. Technicians use protective eyewear and gloves during installation and lamp replacement to avoid direct UV exposure, which can cause skin or eye irritation.
When is a UV light system most effective in Bozeman homes?
It provides the greatest benefit in homes with recurring mold odors, high humidity, or occupants with allergies or respiratory conditions. If your cooling coil frequently develops mold or if you notice musty smells when the system starts, a UV lamp can address the underlying biological growth.

Granite Peak Mechanical Services installs UV light air purification systems in residential and commercial HVAC equipment throughout Bozeman and nearby areas. If you are concerned about mold, bacteria, or air quality issues stemming from your ductwork, contact us to discuss lamp placement, system compatibility, and expected outcomes based on your specific setup.