Last Updated on May 5, 2021
What is UV light? Essentially this is a type of electromagnetic radiation. It comes naturally from the sun and can be artificially created with specialized bulbs. We have three types of UV radiation; these include UV-A, UV-B, and UV-C. You cannot observe any of these with the naked eye. UV-C (among these) has the smallest wavelength (180-280nm). Moreover, UV-C is the one used for UV disinfection.
Although you can buy most commercial UV products sold as sanitizers, you should be aware that there is a difference between sanitation and disinfection- the two are not necessarily synonymous. Generally, sanitization helps to reduce the number of germs found on a surface. On its part, disinfection helps eliminate virtually all the pathogenic microorganisms- except for inanimate objects or bacterial spores. This is according to CDC sources.
UV-C light is a single disinfection method that has- according to many studies- demonstrated the capacity to inactivate the Covid-19 virus. Notably, EPA has a list of all Covid-19- approved disinfectants that may be used on various surfaces. However, before doing so, carefully read all the instructions- most of these products aren’t known to be tech-friendly. Interestingly, CDC says that the viral RNA (previously associated with Covid-19) is rarely viable on surfaces hence isn’t infectious.
Can You Use UV CPAP Sanitizers?
The US National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine says that UV sanitizers can still be used. The academy says this despite the fact that the evidence remains inconclusive regarding UV sanitizers’ efficacy against the novel coronavirus. However, UV light is evidently effective in dealing with other coronavirus strains (including the MERS-causing strain). The US government is actively working with the relevant industry leaders to formulate the standards governing UV-disinfection.
Recently, CleanSlate, an institution that deals in UV-C sanitizing solutions, released information showing that UV light can kill 99% of coronavirus-related bacteria in just 20 seconds. Already, many hospitals are known to use UV –light disinfectants to kill superbugs. Further, Duke University hospitals have used the same UV-disinfection technology for many years. Studies by the US CDC have determined that UV disinfection can limit the transmission of VRE, MRSA, and Acinetobacter and C. difficile by a cumulative 30%. These are the four main superbugs.
Note that although UVC-C irradiation can destroy Covid-19, the kit’s only effective as a second line of defense against microbes and viruses. Why? Already masks, hand washing, and social distancing are far more effective and easier to use.
Use FDA-Approved UV CPAP Cleaners
The US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has recommended using a UV-light cleaning system in disinfecting N95 masks. Some experts say that the small size of the product and it’s not expensive are significantly helpful in places like homes. During this pandemic, the FDA has authorized the use of Lumin LM3000 for emergency purposes. This one initially worked for cleaning continuous positive airway pressure and its machine accessories.
The FDA says that Lumin LM 3000 uses a UV germicidal irradiation cycle to decontaminate a specific N95 respirator. It does this by exposing the respirator’s inner and outer surfaces for 5 minutes each. Thus, it reduces the potential virus levels, offering additional safety when used to reinforce the CDC 5-day wait time reuse recommendations.
Overall, since the FDA has approved UV cleaners for cleaning N95 masks, it’s highly recommended for use in cleaning your CPAP equipment. Moreover, it’s a reliable method.
