COVID-19, UV-C light and Coil Coatings: A New Era in Commercial HVAC.

As an HVAC professional, you understand that protecting coils from corrosion has long relied on high-quality protective coatings. However, the rise of COVID-19 has introduced new challenges to this industry standard.

With businesses closing and then gradually reopening, many have focused on improving their HVAC systems to reduce airborne virus transmission and support better indoor air quality. One common upgrade has been the use of UV-C light — a type of ultraviolet radiation known for its ability to neutralize pathogens by breaking down their outer proteins.

UV-C light was previously shown to be effective against SARS-CoV, the virus responsible for the 2003 SARS outbreak. While it’s not yet fully proven against SARS-CoV-2 (the virus causing the current pandemic), many facility engineers are optimistic about its potential. However, this shift toward UV-C usage brings a new challenge for HVAC systems.

Although UV-C doesn’t affect the metal components of HVAC coils, it can degrade the protective coatings designed to prevent corrosion. This means that traditional testing standards, such as ASTM B-117 and ISO 12944-9, which focus on salt spray and environmental exposure, may not account for the effects of UV-C light.

A New Challenge in HVAC

The growing use of UV-C technology in commercial HVAC systems has created a pressing need for coatings that can withstand prolonged exposure without losing adhesion or flexibility. Many existing tests don't simulate real-world UV-C conditions, leaving a gap in the evaluation of coating performance under these new circumstances.

Enter Heresite®

Heresite, a leader in protective coil coatings, has taken a proactive approach by developing a coating that can withstand UV-C exposure. Their P-413 coating has been rigorously tested alongside Sanuvox Technologies, with panels exposed to 1,500 hours of UV-C light. The results showed that both P-413 and P-413 + UC-5509 panels retained their structural integrity, showing only minor fading with no loss of adhesion or flexibility.

A Proud Heresite Partner

For over 16 years, Nationwide Coils has partnered with Heresite to ensure our coils meet the highest standards of quality and durability. Our collaboration has helped us produce reliable custom and OEM replacement coils. Heresite's commitment to innovation and rigorous testing further solidifies our trust in their products.

If you're considering UV-C light to improve your HVAC system’s air quality, make sure your coils are protected with a coating that can handle UV-C exposure, as well as all other forms of corrosion. Heresite’s P-413 is a proven solution that delivers long-term protection and performance.

Get a coil quote now.

To view Heresite’s full test results for P-413, click here.