HOW ULTRAVIOLET DISINFECTION WORKS
 
Just below the smallest wavelength of visible light is a band called the Ultraviolet Spectrum. The "Germicidal Band" (UVc) of the Ultraviolet Spectrum is 100 - 280 nanometers. Light at this wavelength destroys microorganisms including bacteria and viruses. The WaterFixer operates at 253.7 nanometers, which is the most effective wavelength for germicidal action. Microorganisms are destroyed by UV light on contact--this means that UV light must strike the organism to be effective. Since UV light will not penetrate anything but a clear liquid, to maintain clarity of your water the WaterFixer comes with two prefilters.
   
PREFILTRATION
  
The first prefilter screens out larger size substances; the second filter screens out remaining fine sediment plus chlorine and other chemicals while eliminating any existing odors or unpleasant tastes in your water. It also filters parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium cysts. Inside the 304 stainless steel disinfection chamber, the ultraviolet bulb is housed in a special quartz sleeve (tube) that allows the bulb to emit energy at the 253.7 nanometers wavelength. The sterilizing power of the unit is defined by how many microwatts can be applied to the water per second. At a flow rate of 4 gallons per minute, the WaterFixer radiates significantly greater energy than the 16,000 microwatt seconds per square centimeter required by the U.S. Public Health Service for UV disinfection equipment. To ensure effectiveness of the ultraviolet component, prefiltration is mandatory. Only approved filters should be used.