UV-C is a low cost solution to disinfect cooling coils, drain pans and duct surfaces that have accumulated mold and bacteria growth. The technology disrupts a micro-organism’s DNA, triggering a chain reaction that leads to cellular death. Because the lamps operate continuously, biofilms are unable to regenerate, provided the UV-C source is properly maintained. This technology is frequently used to address many sources of poor indoor air quality that contribute to employee discomfort and absenteeism.

Contaminants, particularly the presence of fungi (mycotoxins), can trigger serious health problems to building occupants. As noted in an Applied and Environmental Microbiology study, “fungi have been found growing on air filters, insulation and cooling coils, as well as in ducts. The contamination often contributes to building related diseases, including both infectious diseases and hypersensitivity diseases such as allergic rhinitis, asthma and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. HVAC system can also inadvertently transmit rhinoviruses (common cold), tuberculosis, measles, SARS Also acute toxicosis and cancer have been attributed to respiratory exposure to mycotoxins.