GermGuardian LB5000 Genuine UV-C Replacement Bulb for AC5000 & AC5250PT Germ Guardian Air Purifiers

This was the first time replacing the bulb in my Germ Guardian AC5000 Air Cleaner. I’ve had the unit for 15 months and have had it running almost constantly, but not always with the UV light on. The filter provided what I was in most need of – clearing dust and allergens from the air. Using the UV light to destroy bacteria, viruses, germs and mold spores was equally important, but, as others have said, if you have the unit running in your bedroom, the blue light is bright and annoying. Eventually, I moved the unit out to my living room and turned the light on. Using the UV light gave me a better feeling about the air in my apartment. It was on almost all the time- close to 24/7. I’d say that I got a good 10 months of practically continuous use out of the original bulb. Replacing the bulb is easy enough, just follow the directions provided in the manual, which is available online. UNPLUG the unit. Remove the back cover and the filter. You’ll need a Philips head screwdriver to remove the metal plate covering the rear of the bulb. Using a soft cloth to grasp the bulb, give it a 1/4 turn – you’ll see the pins become visible in the small opening at the top of the bulb. Once you’ve got that, the rest is simple. Gently pull the bulb straight out. Place it inside the tube that the new bulb arrived in. (Very sturdy cardboard tube!) Slip the new bulb in, turn it 1/4 turn to lock it in place. Replace the metal plate and screws. Vacuum your charcoal filter while you have it out, replace it and snap the cover in place. (It will not operate until the cover is in place.) When you turn the unit on, the bulb may or may not be flashing. To reset it, simply hold the power button down for 3-4 seconds. All set! I was a little intimidated by reading some of the other reviews… so I hope this is helpful. If the bulb doesn’t work, contact germguardianoutlet.com for instructions on replacing. Good Luck! July 21, 2016 Update -addressing a question about where blue light shows: You should see the large blue V shaped light right below the chrome panel, which indicates the UV light is turned on, and through the screened vent in front you can only see a small sliver of blue light. Best to look at the whole unit in the dark – the UV light glows slightly through the vents in front and back. Not bright blue, just a faint glow – turn UV off and on again, you’ll see it. Keep in mind that the UV is not meant to be shining out at you – its surrounded by metal and filters to treat the air in that small space as it passes through.