Problems with Allgeries
Spring is here, bringing pollen and allergens along with it. Let’s have a quick chat about indoor air quality.
Most people this time of year reach for those expensive allergen filters and think that’ll do. And they’re partially right. Those filters do a great job… at restricting airflow.
There’s a simpler and more effective way to handle allergens like pollen, dust, mold, and pet dander:
A UV light.
UV lights are installed on the return duct, away from the filter, and plug into a standard electrical outlet. It’s a DIY job that takes about 15 minutes to complete.
If you can drill a hole and run a couple of screws, you’ve got everything you need to get the job done.
Quick Install Guide: Plug-In UV Light for Your HVAC System
What You’ll Need:
A plug-in in-duct UV light kit (see links below)
A drill with a hole saw (usually 1.5" to 2")
A screwdriver
Safety glasses
Work gloves (sheet metal edges are sharp and unforgiving)
A nearby power outlet
Step 1: Pick a Spot
Look for a clean section of your return duct, ideally close to your furnace or air handler. Make sure there’s room inside the duct for the bulb, and that you’ve got an outlet nearby.
Step 2: Drill the Hole
Most kits come with a template—use it. Drill your hole carefully and avoid hitting internal components.
Pro tip: Sheet metal gets hot when you drill it. Gloves will save your hands (and your mood).
Step 3: Mount the Light
Insert the bulb through the hole and secure the mounting plate with the screws provided. Some kits include a gasket; if not, HVAC tape helps seal it tight.
Step 4: Plug It In
Plug the unit into a nearby outlet and look for the indicator light (a small glow or power light). That’s it—your UV light is officially protecting your air.
Maintenance is Easy:
Just change the bulb according to the manufacturer’s instructions—usually once a year. No filters to clean. No complicated parts.
Important: Never look directly at the UV bulb. It’s not normal light—it can damage your eyes.
Where to Buy
You don’t need a top-shelf unit—just a solid plug-in model that fits your duct and works reliably. Here are a few popular options:
Home Depot – VEVOR HVAC Air Purifier
Dual-bulb system with an easy plug-in design. Great for medium to large homes.
Amazon – BioShieldUV® Whole House Plug-In UV Light
Simple and effective. Mounts easily to your duct and plugs right in.
Lowe’s – Honeywell UV Purifier
Trusted brand with solid performance for standard HVAC setups.
These are not affiliate links. I don’t make a dime if you click. If you find another UV light that works better for your setup—go for it. The goal here is clean air, not brand loyalty.
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If you're interested in learning more about how your HVAC system works—or want some easy troubleshooting advice for when something goes wrong—
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