How Long Does an ULTRAVIOLET (UV) LAMP LAST?

Typically, an Ultraviolet or UV lamp last 12 months or about 9000 hours. The lamp will stay lit longer than that time but after that year of use it’s ability to kill bacteria will slowly diminish to zero giving you a very false sense of security. If the system is used seasonally, let’s say for 6 months at a time and then it’s drained and unplugged, you can use it for the next season for another 6 months before needing to replace the lamp again.  You will also significantly shorten the life span of the ballast or controller if you use your lamp longer that 12 months. There are some high end Viqua UV systems where the lamp will last two years but to make sure, check your manual to be sure.