What is UV-C?
UV-C stands for Ultraviolet-C. It is a safe type of frequency similar to what is emanated from the sun. It has been used in both small-scale and even large-scale Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation (UVGI) public health and safety projects in urban areas around the world such as in California, New York, and Canada.
The special Ultraviolet-C frequency in special UV-C bulbs emits electro-magnetic waves that act as a type of germicide as it helps to inactivate and kill germs. Our products have been scientifically proven to eliminate swine flu.
Does UV-C harm us?
Every day when we are outdoors, we are exposed to parts of the UV spectrum. There are 3 different types of UV rays – UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C.
Ultraviolet-C acts as a type of germicide and is used for disinfecting purposes. Prolonged exposure to humans can cause temporary redness of the skin and irritation of the eyes, and it does not cause any permanent damage so there is no risk of skin cancer or cataracts.
At Healthy UV – we have balanced this with advance design and safety in mind to ensure that there is no over-exposure of UV-C in yet maximizing the spectrum which effectively eliminate all micro-organism, bacteria, germs, viruses, mold and algae. We have done this through a variety of safety mechanisms including timers, using UV proof cases, and more technologies to limit over-exposure. With our specially designed infra-red that will sense any human or pet entering the room and will stop the unit immediately which makes our units the safest in the world to use both at home or work places.
Our UV-C tubes are specially made with a precision of mixture which are injected into the tubes to give the precise electro-magnetic waves that act as a germicide for the purpose of killing all micro-organism, germs and viruses
How are the germs killed?
Germs are organisms that can absorb UV-C wavelengths. They are destroyed by UV-C through a process called photo-disassociation. When UV-C frequency touches the germ’s structure, it results in irreversible damage and results in the germs’ death. They are also unable to reproduce, thus making germs inactive and harmless.
As mentioned above, UV-C is naturally emanated from the sun. The sun is able to kill germs, however at a much slower rate compared to our specifically designed UV-C products.
Does this really work?
Yes, it really does work. Research has been conducted by universities, research laboratories and published in journals. They also have real-life applications used in public health uses in urban areas in the United States and Canada. It is also currently used in medicine and dentistry for sterilizing medical tools in operation theatres.
Why should I use a UV sanitizer if I am using chemical cleaners?
Chemical cleaners may not be as effective in several ways. First, diluting the cleaners will dilute the germicidal effects as well. The germs will not be killed, instead they may become mutated and form resistance to the chemicals. Under-diluted chemicals will also provide a suitable damp surface for the germs to grow and become resistant. Moreover we should be living in a chemical free world.
Ideally, using UV-C is the best and effective way to use to provide a healthy and chemical free environment.
Is ozone produced by the UV-C lamps?
No, ozone is not produced. However, UV-C is able to condition the air similar to the sun when outdoors.
How can we tell if it is working?
There are a few methods to demonstrate whether this really works or not.
One technique is to use a contact plate with malt agar in it. Touch the surface of the plate lightly before installing (expose to) UV-C. Then, incubate the plate for about 96 hours. Repeat the same procedure in the same place after UV-C is installed (exposed). You can be sure to see a 98% reduction in growth of bacteria. The same method can be repeated on samples of the drain pan and the water in it, using different types of growth medium for the bacteria.
There are some other simple ways of testing:
- The simplest and easiest way is to make two small portion of fresh yeast. Yeast is bacteria that grow very quickly. Put one portion aside and apply UV-C onto the other portion. You will see or notice the portion where the UV-C is being applied will not grow indicating and proving this UV-C kills and stop the bacteria from growing, concluding this UV-C works.
- A visible reduction of mold will be seen in a very short period of time in areas where UV-C is being used.
- Room atmosphere becomes significantly cleaner and has a fresher feel to it. Rooms may also start to appear to be cleaner.
- Most of the associated odors from irradiated contamination will disappear. You will notice all bad smells (odors) will disappear after a few treatments.
Should UV-C Products be certified?
Yes, for complete safety, all UV-C fixtures and unit must be certified and tested by the country government bodies or recognized department or bodies. All units must carry a certification.
What warranty should I expect?
All units should carry a minimum of 6-12 months warranty. However the warranty does not include any wears and tears and does not cover the UV-C tubes or any electronic parts.
Where do I store this unit?
The unit can be stored in any dry locker and keep out of children reach.
When do you change the tubes?
The UV-C tubes carried a life time of 8000 hours or a year. However it is advisable to have the tubes changed every 6000 hours to provide a more efficiency of the sterilization. It is also advisable to send back the old, used tubes for disposal as we are the people who “Heals the world & Heals the people” thus we would take back the old tubes for proper disposal.
Do I need to clean the lamp tubes?
There may be commonly found organic debris on the tube surface, which is usually degraded by the tube itself. Thus, there is usually not a need to clean the tube periodically. However, it is advisable to give the surface a wipe with a dry cloth every once in a while should you notice an accumulation of dirt on the surface.
How are the tubes cleaned when necessary?
Cleaning could become vital if the lamp comes into contact with moisture, damp organic debris or oily surfaces. You can use vinegar to clean mineral deposits and any soapy liquid to remove damp organic debris. For oil, simply use a solution of pure alcohol and wipe down with a lint-free cloth. You can use commercially available cleaning solutions if it does not leave any residue.
What about microbial contamination on dust particles?
Microbes can be found either on surfaces or in the air. UV-C will normally simply degrade and destroy the dust particles and the microbes that are on it.
What are inactivated microbes?
This could happen in bacteria or mold. The dose of UV-C energy may not result in immediate cell death, but the microbes are inactivated instead. This means that some may still be biologically active, but are not capable of reproducing and are not viable. Continual UV-C exposure will quicken their death. Since viral particles are not life forms, they only need to be inactivated in order to be considered harmless.
Can I see UV-C energy?
Approximately 90% of the energy produced by a UV-C tube is UV-C energy. The balance is visible light – seen as a blue light, and a bit of infra-red radiation (heat). The typical brightness of UV-C tubes is from the 3-4 % of visible light that is produced along with the UV-C energy.
Is the blue light an indicator that the lamps are working?
This may not be true. A non-reactive gas inside the lamp is what gives the blue color. The lamp may appear blue but not produce any UV-C energy, if at all. Thus, we recommend that you change the UV-C tubes once every 6000 hours or every eight months, depending on usage conditions. Be sure to find replacements from the same supplier so as to prevent complications.
Is UV-C unit expensive to buy?
Not at all. One would not put a price tag on their health and life, moreover when you purchased a unit; you are purchasing it for years to come besides one would be healthier and happier when you and your love ones live in a healthy environment.
We are here to “Heal the world, Heal the people”.