What are UV Light Sterilizers?
There are many different types of UV sanitation methods becoming more prominent. Each one is slightly different and has varying levels of effectiveness. It's important to know and understand what makes each different. We're going to dive into LED sterilizers and what they are and do.
What is an LED UV sterilizer?
LEDs are light emitting diodes. Recently, LEDs have been used to provide UV disinfection. LED lights last longer and are more efficient than some other UV disinfection methods like mercury vapor lamps. According to the FDA, LEDs typically emit a narrow wavelength of radiation.
Can LEDs emit UV light?
LEDs can emit UV light. Premiere Lighting, a company that provides and installs commercial grade lighting said many studies have shown that LEDs release a small amount of UV light. “That said, the amount of UV they actually emit is even less. This is due to the phosphors within an LED lamp that convert the Ultraviolet light to white light.”
Do UV-C LED lights really work?
UV-C LED lights are an effective way to safely sanitize surfaces. UV-C is known to overtime damage fabrics and paint. Museums will often choose them since they won’t damage artifacts. The FDA said the following regarding UV-C LED lights:
“The small surface area and higher directionality of LEDs may make them less effective for germicidal applications.”
Can UV light be used for sterilization?
UV light has three wavelength categories: UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C. UV-C light is a short-wavelength, ultraviolet light that breaks apart germ DNA, leaving it unable to function or reproduce. UV-C light effectively destroys harmful bacteria and viruses. It’s most effective in a controlled environment like our PhoneSoap units that will shield your eyes and skin from being exposed to the light as well as protect your phone and other devices from damage.
Are UV LEDs dangerous?
LEDs produce UV but emit less. While UV light can cause sunburns, blisters, and even skin cancer in large doses, most artificial lighting like LEDs control and contain the amount of UV light and are unlikely to cause damage. UV light is dangerous to the skin and eyes, but most UV sterilizers ensure the light is only used in a controlled environment.
How effective is UV-C light?
UV-C light is very effective at killing germs and bacteria. Used in PhoneSoap’s units, the UV-C light kills 99.99% of germs and bacteria in just 10 minutes.
Do hospitals use UV light?
Many hospitals use UV light to disinfect operating and patient rooms. Typically, hospitals will use portable UV-C disinfection systems.