What to look for when comparing UVC devices
The Problem
The market is saturated with a magnitute of ineffective and even fake UVC devices from pop-up companies attempting to capitalize on the pandemic.
red flags with uvc devices and companies
Many companies use low quality soft glass sleeves with poor transmittance for their bulbs and other inferior components prone to failure. If specifications don’t list the materials of critical pieces, that’s a sign of bad quality.
The most important thing about any UVC device is wattage and UV intensity. If a product doesn’t share this information stay away! The distance at which the intensity was measured is key. i.e. ≥150 µW/cm2 (at 3.5 ft)
When shopping with an online retailer beware of companies that do not have a physical location, website, or history. They often remove products (or disappear) when their ratings get too low. Then they pop back up again.
Non-Reputable Companies/Brands
- No Testing or proof of effectiveness
- Missing certifications fro products and components
- Often do not know what they are even selling
- Reluctant, slow, unknowledgeable customer support
- Essentially no warranties and harsh return policies
- Misleeding information in advertisements
- Inadequate safety measures put customers at risk
- Poorly written and vague instructions
- Incomplete product specifications
Trustworthy Companies/Brands
- Independently tested by reputable US companies and universities
- EPA Registered products, full FDA compliance and many certifications (varies by product type)
- Fast and experienced customer support
- Solid warranties
- High-purity and durable titanium treated bulbs
- Best of breed components
- Abundant safety features
- Thorough and clear instructions
- Detailed technical information
Certifications to look for
important safety features
Motion Sensors
Timer Settings
Remote Control
Safety Lock
Pressure Switches
