What is this box on my ductwork? An air scrubber
A box mounted on the ductwork with a glowing light inside is usually an air scrubber, an air cleaner built into your heating and cooling system. It treats the air as it moves through the ducts, so every room gets it, not just the one with a plug in purifier.
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From one of our jobs
An air scrubber on foil wrapped ductwork
Right now: Check that the light on the unit is on. If it’s off or blinking, the bulb or cell is due.
The unit sits on the supply side of the duct, and the light on the front tells you it’s running. Inside is a UV lamp and a coated cell that work on the air passing by. It runs whenever your furnace or AC blower runs.
The lamp and cell wear out over time, and the indicator is how you know. Most need a new cell every couple of years. If the light is out or blinking, it’s time for a look.
Quick answers
What people ask about air scrubbers
What is the box with a light on my ductwork?
Most often an air scrubber or UV air cleaner. It cleans the air as your system moves it through the ducts.
Does an air scrubber run all the time?
It runs when the furnace or AC blower runs. Setting the fan to on keeps it working between heating and cooling cycles.
How often does an air scrubber need service?
The cell and lamp usually get replaced every couple of years. The indicator light tells you when.
Does an air scrubber replace my furnace filter?
No. The filter still catches dust and protects the blower. Keep changing it on schedule.
Who do I call about an air scrubber in Northern Virginia?
Call SwiftPro at (703) 997-9757. We install and service air scrubbers across Northern Virginia.
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SwiftPro Heating, Cooling & Plumbing
4230 Lafayette Center Dr N, Chantilly, VA 20151
44679 Endicott Dr, Suite 211, Ashburn, VA 20147
SwiftPro Plumber & Water Heaters
4200 Lafayette Center Dr, Suite N, Chantilly, VA 20151
Virginia Class A contractor license #2705192276