Centuries ago, Physician NeilsRyeber received a Nobel Prize for using UV light radiation to treat ailments like Lupus. Hospitals have since used the technology to disinfect surgical rooms and equipment. But how does a UV sterilizer work? What powers it? Is UV actually safe? How can I benefit from UV sterilization? Homes and businesses considering UV sterilization have a lot to ponder.
How Do UV Sanitizers Work?
Ultraviolet light is electromagnetic radiation with three primary types: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVC radiations have the shortest wavelength and pack more energy, while UVA has wider wavelengths and less energy. Most UV light sanitizers you encounter produce UVC, which has germicidal potential. Modern UV light sterilizers use various energy sources, including standard wall outlets, power banks, mobile devices, and more.
UV light sterilizers produce UV radiation by passing an electric current through gas like vaporized mercury. The sun is also a natural UV light source. Producing UV light naturally involves heating objects to high (incandescent) temperatures, which occurs at the sun’s surface. Modern UV light sterilizers rely on the artificial production of UV radiation via electric currents and vaporized gas. Both are essential for powering commercially available UV lamps or devices.
How Are UV and Violet-Blue Sterilizers Powered?
UV light sterilizers come in different forms, including portable wands, custom sanitization boxes, tiny phone-attached devices, and bulky lamps and units. Since UV is electromagnetic radiation, all UV light sterilizers rely on electricity. Some devices are plugged into a wall socket directly or via an extension. Others use electricity from a generator or batteries connected to solar panels. Smaller units can leverage power in cell batteries like the one your phone uses.
1. Standard Electric Outlets
UV lamps can be fixed (installed), mobile or portable. The sterilizer type determines where it sources energy. Fixed Pulsed Xenon UV lamps use standard electric outlets found in most buildings. The unit features a convenient power cable that you plug into the wall outlet like other electrical appliances. You can also use them with stable extensions, AC/DC converters, and other standard 12v electric outlets. The lamps can also be powered using a generator.
2. UV Power Banks
Some UV light sterilizers combine germicidal potential with the convenience of modern portable power banks. The power banks feature a battery that can power different devices to full charge. You can use them to charge your smartphone, tablet, iPad, iPod, Bluetooth headsets, and the UV light sanitizer. The UV light is perfect for disinfecting things like your toothbrush or sanitizing high-touch surfaces during your travels.
3. Smartphone Battery
Smaller UV light sanitizers don’t need to be plugged into a wall socket or other powerful outlets. You can use them with your phone battery and bring them everywhere for instant sanitization. The sanitizer features a cable that plugs into your smartphone’s charging system and draws enough power to produce germicidal UV light. Most models use Type-C adaptors, ensuring compatibility with nearly any device. The lights also use minimal phone battery.
4. Cell Batteries
Portable UV light sterilizers can use cell batteries to power the device and produce germicidal radiation. A good example is the UV wireless charger plugged onto a wall socket to charge a cell battery. The device stores enough power in the rechargeable cell, like a power bank. You can then use it to disinfect phones and other small devices. Cell batteries are also featured in UV portable wands and other portable sanitizers designed for those on the move.
Best UV Sterilizer for Common Pathogens
Ultraviolet light sterilization has seen tremendous growth and innovation over the past few years. The lights address disinfection needs for companies, businesses, warehouses, retail outlets, the transport sector, and many other settings. Users can also find unique models and sizes, including fixed and portable units.
You need the best UV sterilizer to kill common pathogens. Choosing units from reputable brands like Violet Defense can guarantee the death of up to 99.9% of E. coli, C. diff., MRSA, Norovirus, Salmonella, coronavirus, and C. Auris. Make sure you review the sterilizer to find a suitable choice for your spaces.
