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Hygiene in ventilation systems

Reliably reduce germ load and odors in the system with UV-C technology

Ventilation and air conditioning systems supply rooms with fresh air—but they can also become a source of germs, mold spores, and unpleasant odors. Unhygienic conditions can quickly arise, especially in complex HVAC systems with damp areas, condensate lines, or long ducts.

Oxytec uses UV-C technology for continuous air and surface disinfection directly in the ventilation system – chemical-free, residue-free, and retrofittable.

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Typical hygiene problems in ventilation systems

area Stresses Special features
Supply air ducts & filter stages Dust, pollen, bioaerosols, mold spores Accumulation of nutrients and moisture
Heat exchangers & droplet separators Mucus layers, germs, odor-causing agents Damp areas, difficult to clean
Central air handling units Bacteria, mold, unpleasant odors Inaccessible areas, possible recontamination
Recirculating air and exhaust air systems Odor and germ contamination due to room recirculation Risk of spreading infectious agents

Why use Oxytec in ventilation systems?

Germ reduction directly at critical points in the air system

No additional pressure loss – no interference with the air flow

Can be retrofitted in new and existing systems

Supports VDI 6022-compliant operation

Odor reduction in recirculation mode or kitchen exhaust air

Legal requirements

VDI 6022 – Hygiene in HVAC systems

  • UV-C is a recognized measure for improving hygiene
  • Requirements for inspection, maintenance, and recontamination
  • Oxytec systems support standard-compliant implementation

DIN EN 16798-3

  • Requirements for air quality in non-residential buildings
  • Hygienic air supply as part of indoor air quality
  • UV-C additionally reduces the risk of infection

Clean air starts in the plant

With oxytec, you can ensure the air quality of your entire room air supply—sustainably, with low maintenance, and in compliance with regulations.

Get advice now—for HVAC hygiene, kitchen ventilation, or industrial ventilation systems.

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UV-C surface disinfection for central air handling units

UV Box

Plasma modules for high odor pollution

Typical areas of application

  • Hospitals, nursing homes, doctors’ offices
  • Food processing, commercial kitchens
  • Industrial companies with HVAC systems
  • Hotels, cinemas, office buildings, shopping centers
  • Cold storage facilities, laboratories, clean room areas

Your advantages with oxytec

Reliable germ reduction in air and on surfaces – directly in the system

Reduction of odors and slime formation in the heat exchanger

Can be retrofitted in existing ducts and central units

No chemicals, no residues

Meets hygiene requirements for modern HVAC systems

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

What problems typically occur in ventilation systems?

Ventilation systems can become a source of mold spores, bacteria, and biofilms if they are not properly maintained or have structural weaknesses.

  • mold spores, bacteria, and biofilms
  • unpleasant odors (e.g., from organic residues)
  • allergenic particles
  • the spread of viruses via recirculation systems

These problems arise particularly in damp areas such as droplet separators, heat exchangers, and humidifiers.

How does UV-C technology improve hygiene in the system?

Short-wave UV-C light (approx. 254 nm):

  • destroys the DNA and RNA of microorganisms before they spread
  • Prevents biofilm formation in damp areas of the ventilation system
  • works without chemicals, leaves no residue, and operates continuously
  • is energy-efficient and low-maintenance

Where is UV-C technology installed in the ventilation system?

Depending on the situation:

  • In the air duct (supply air, recirculating air, exhaust air)
  • Directly in front of or behind heat exchangers
  • In the area of droplet separators, in central air handling units
  • Also possible in combination with HEPA or activated carbon filters

oxytec offers customized installation solutions for new systems and retrofits.

How does UV-C affect filter service life and maintenance?

By reducing biofilms and germ contamination:

  • the filter service life is significantly extended
  • Maintenance costs and cleaning intervals are reduced
  • Odor formation is prevented – especially with recirculating air or kitchen exhaust air
  • Devices operate virtually maintenance-free, with only the UV-C modules needing to be replaced annually

Are Oxytec solutions VDI 6022 compliant?

Yes – our systems:

  • meet the requirements of VDI 6022 Parts 1 and 3 (Hygiene in HVAC systems)
  • support regular inspection and improvement of hygiene conditions
  • can be integrated into inspection protocols and operating concepts

What happens in the event of a power failure or ventilation shutdown?

UV-C systems are automatically secured and shut down in a controlled manner.

No danger from UV radiation in the room.

Automatic activation with soft start upon restart.

Are UV-C systems safe for health?

Yes – when properly installed in ducts or appliances:

  • no UV radiation escapes into the room
  • ozone-free (254 nm wavelength does not generate ozone)
  • Suitable for continuous operation in sensitive areas

How energy-efficient is the use of UV-C in ventilation systems?

UV-C systems have:

  • low power consumption per m³/h of air volume
  • significantly lower operating and maintenance costs compared to chemical processes
  • often pay for themselves within 1–2 years through savings in cleaning and filters

What subsidies are available for hygienic HVAC retrofitting?

Depending on the state and industry:

  • Support programs for hygiene investments in medical, public, and commercial buildings
  • Also in the context of climate protection, energy efficiency, or infection prevention
  • Oxytec provides support with technical project descriptions and documentation