While SteriPEN is a fairly simple product to use, we get lots of questions about the many use situations and water conditions in which one can use the product. We have identified the key ones here for your convenience, but if our website does not answer your question, please contact us at either support@steripen.com or call 1-888-SteriPEN.
Microbes such as bacteria, viruses and protozoa make you sick by reproducing and overwhelming your body's immune system. SteriPEN creates ultraviolet (UV) light that disrupts the DNA of microbes in seconds. Without functional DNA, microbes can't reproduce to make you sick.
Ultraviolet light is invisible, high energy light. UV water purification is an old technology. In 1878, its effectiveness against bacteria was noted and it is now used commercially in bottling plants, in hospitals and in municipal water treatment plants worldwide. Wavelengths of light are measured in nanometers (nm). A nanometer is one billionth of a meter. Visible light ranges from red at about 700nm to violet at about 400nm. Normally the human eye does not see light at wavelengths outside of this 400nm to 700nm "visible" range. The entire band of UV light is about as broad as the entire visible spectrum — it runs from 400nm to about 100nm. The UV band is divided into 3 ranges: UV-A between 400nm and 320nm, UV-B between 320nm and 290nm and UV-C between 290nm and 100nm.
Most of SteriPEN's UV light is emitted at 254nm, in the UV-C range. UV-C light destroys DNA and thereby prevents microbes from reproducing. Germicidal UV light — between 240nm and 290nm — acts on thymine, one of the four base nucleotides in DNA. When a germicidal UV photon is absorbed by a thymine molecule that is adjacent to another thymine within the DNA strand, a covalent bond or dymer, between the molecules is created. This thymine dymer prevents enzymes from "reading" the DNA and replicating. Without the ability to replicate DNA, the microbe cannot reproduce and is rendered harmless.
Used as directed, SteriPEN will not cause UV exposure to the user, so it is completely safe to use. UV-C will not pass through most materials. Drinking containers made from glass, ceramic, metal, and nearly all plastics block UV-C transmission. As a result, when SteriPEN’s lamp is immersed in virtually any drinking vessel, the UV-C is well contained. Note that SteriPEN’s water sensors prevent it from operating unless the lamp is completely immersed.
While very few materials are transparent to UV-C, there are a small number of uncommon materials that are. These include optical grade quartz (the SteriPEN lamp material) and a few fluoropolymers in the Teflon family – both unlikely materials to be used for drinking containers. Note that SteriPEN’s lamp emits a number of wavelengths, some of which are in the visible range. The visible blue light given off by SteriPEN is just that, visible blue light – not ultra violet – and it is not dangerous to look at. In fact while the visible light has no germicidal effect, it is an important indicator that the lamp is functioning properly. If no light is visible the lamp is malfunctioning.
Finally, it's important to note that any attempt to misuse or circumvent SteriPEN safety features may cause direct exposure to ultraviolet light, which could cause skin and eye damage.
SteriPEN has an onboard microcomputer that controls operation time. Dose time is 48 seconds for 16 ounces (1/2 liter) and 90 seconds for 1 quart (or 1 liter). SteriPEN automatically delivers the appropriate dose duration and then shuts off.
Steripen is highly effective. It exceed the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency requirements for Microbiological water Purifiers. Numerous studies conducted at leading universities and laboratories show SteriPEN destroys over: 99.9999% of bacteria, 99.99% of viruses and 99.9% of protozoa (i.e. Giardia and Cryptosporidium). All of SteriPEN's independent test reports are available online.
SteriPEN has been tested and certified by the Water Quality Association (WQA) against the US EPA Microbiological Water Purifier Standard. the WQA has awarded its Gold Seal to SteriPEN.
SteriPEN should be brought along whenever there is any concern about water safety. The primary situations include hiking or camping, where local rivers or streams are often used for water needs; when traveling to developing countries where the water treatment systems are often inadequate and bottled water may not always be available or come from unknown sources; also, if you live in areas at risk for natural disasters, such as hurricanes, earthquakes and chronic flood zones.
SteriPEN is fast, light, easy and highly effective. Compared to chemicals, SteriPEN has no chemical taste or odor and no long term health effects like iodine. Also, SteriPEN is much faster in that it can accomplish in 90 seconds what chemicals take up to 4 hours to complete.
Compared to filters, SteriPEN is generally more effective, as most filters do not remove viruses. In addition, SteriPEN weighs less than most filters and is much easier to use. Filters make the most sense in situations where the water is very murky and requires a great deal of sediment removal.
It is important to agitate the water by stirring gently with the SteriPEN. Stirring of the water ensures uniform UV treatment. Also, SteriPEN is intended for use in clear water.
Water with significant discoloration or particulates can reduce effectiveness of SteriPEN by inhibiting the penetration of UV light through the water. Many people coarsely filter their water with a coffee filter or bandana if there is sediment in the water. If the sediment is very fine, like suspended talcum powder, it often needs to be allowed to settle to the bottom, whether using SteriPEN or another type of water treatment.
Hydro-Photon, Inc. also offers the SteriPEN Water Bottle Pre-Filter to filter out particulates (down to the size of ground pepper). The Pre-Filter fits most wide mouth water bottles and contains a 40 x 40 micron screen.
SteriPEN disinfects with light only. No chemicals are needed. By not using chemicals, SteriPEN avoids problems of chemical toxicity and unpleasant chemical taste and smell.
All SteriPEN models provide the same basic function with regard to purifying effectiveness and time required to treat water. See Outdoor Comparison and Travel Comparison for details on our various products.
Yes, SteriPEN will work on any source of fresh water globally that may contain bacteria, viruses or protozoa. It is intended to be used on clear water and shouldn't be used on either salt water or water with ice in it.
The SteriPEN Adventurer and Journey models come with 2 disposable CR123 Batteries. The available Solar Charging Case and the Adventurer w/ Solar Charging Case bundle-pack come with one double CR123 battery, which replaces two single CR123s. Traveler mini uses 2 disposable CR123 batteries, which are not included.
The SteriPEN Classic, Traveler, and Emergency products all use 4 AA batteries, which are also sold separately. Well-known, brand name Lithium or Nickel Metal Hydride batteries are strongly recommended for their superior power. Alkaline batteries of any kind are NOT recommended due to their uneven performance.
At Hydro-Photon, product quality is our first priorioty. Every single SteriPEN is tested for correct function and ultraviolet light output. We offer various warranties for our products, with a minimum term of one year limited warranty against any manufacturing defect. See the full product warranty details for US-purchased products and non-US purchased products.
SteriPEN is tested and certified by the Water Quality Association against the US EPA Microbiological Water Purifier Standard. For more information about this certification, click WQA. This certification is based on the numerous studies conducted by 3rd party laboratories on SteriPEN. In addition, SteriPEN has been tested by Intertek Testing Service to all relevant US and international standards. SteriPEN conforms to: UL Standard UL 61010B-1, Conforms to EN 61010-1: 1993 + A1 + A2. Certified to CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 1010.1-92, Listed 3058969.
Yes you can take a SteriPEN in your carry-on when traveling by airplane. Many of our employees, families, friends, and customers have traveled with SteriPENs personally. We would recommend simply carrying the user guide with the SteriPEN so, if questions do arise, it is easy to explain and show what the product is and does!
Containers made from glass, ceramic, metal and nearly all plastics block UV-C transmission and therefore are ok to use. There are a small number of uncommon materials that are transparent to UV-C light. These include optical grade quartz (the SteriPEN lamp material) and a few fluoropolymers in the Teflon family. Containers made from these materials should not be used with SteriPEN.
We recommend that the water be clear to ensure that the ultraviolet light is exposed to all potential microbes that may be in the water. Discolored or cloudy water should be pre-filtered until clear prior to SteriPEN treatment. The SteriPEN Pre-Filter or FitsAll Filter can be used to help clarify water. Coffee filters or a shirt can also be used in an emergency.
Yes. SteriPEN has been successfully used on mountains all over the world — including Kilimanjaro and Everest (please refer to our Testimonials page). If the ambient temperature is below 32°F (0°C) we suggest that you carry the SteriPEN in your pocket to keep it warm, as battery performance may be impacted by very cold temperatures.
No, we do not recommend you use the SteriPEN on water with ice in it because the UV light cannot pass through the air bubbles or impurities in the ice. We recommend removing the ice from the drink before treating it. You could also allow the ice to melt and then treat the water.
SteriPEN does not purify the threads of a water bottle. Users should use a clean piece of cloth such as a bandana to wipe off the threads of a bottle before drinking.
Another way to address this issue is to use our Pre-Filter. Our Pre-Filter attaches to the opening of a standard wide mouth Nalgene type bottle. The Pre-Filter is designed to keep the threads dry while submerging the bottle into your water supply. Always check the threads for water droplets before drinking. Click here for more information.
Yes, SteriPEN water purifiers effectively disinfect snow melt waters. In some very rare instances, the SteriPEN may not readily activate if the water is so pure that there is not enough trace mineral content to cause the water sensors to recognize that the unit is submerged in water. Very pure water is a poor electrical conductor -- the sensors may not conduct enough electricity to recognize the water. This can easily be corrected by adding a small pinch of salt, or a drop or two of some kind of electrolyte beverage to the water.
The SteriPEN is very effective against water born viruses, bacteria, and cysts. Leptospira interrogans, most commonly called Infectious Jaundice & Leptospirosis, is easily treated.
SteriPEN is effective against the oocyst Cyclospora. We have not tested the SteriPEN against this specific microorganism, but many studies by reputable institutions have been posted on the web. The World Health Organization has also published a detailed document concerning the purification of water and Cyclospora.
We have tested SteriPEN only against bacteria, viruses and the protozoa Cryptosporidium and Giardia. We have never tested against worm eggs, so unfortunately we cannot give a definitive answer with regards to UV treatment in this case.
The Solar Charging Case has a place to house either the Adventurer or any silver-colored Traveler or Traveler mini model and also has a spot for 2 CR123 Rechargeable batteries. *Important* ONLY put rechargeable CR123 batteries in your Solar Charging Case. Putting NON-rechargeable batteries in your Solar Charging Case could result in damage to the Solar Charging Case and/or batteries; in rare instances it could result in fire.
The Adventurer and silver Traveler do not mate, or create a water-tight seal with the Pre-Filter like the Classic, Journey and new Traveler (blue metallic) and Emergency models do. You can still use the Pre-Filter with a wide mouth water bottle to filter out particulates and debris before purifying. After pre-filtering, simply remove the pre-filter base from the water bottle and treat the water by inserting the pen directly into the bottle.
Our Outdoor product line, including the Classic, Adventurer and Journey models is designed and guaranteed for 8,000 treatments, sufficient for 3 doses per day for over 7 years. Our Traveler and Emergency products are designed and guaranteed for 3,000 treatments.
Yes, the UV lamp for all models can be replaced. We do not sell replacement lamps; you would need to send your SteriPEN back to our Technical Support Department to have the lamp replaced. This is because a qualified technician must replace and test the lamp to ensure that it is installed correctly and will function properly. If the problem is a manufacturer's defect there is no cost. If the lamp has been broken the cost is $20.00 plus $7.50 s&h.
In some SteriPEN models, when you treat a new sample of water within 2 minutes of the previous treatment, the purification time is reduced by 10 seconds to 38 seconds. This is because when the lamp is warm the UV output starts out higher than it does if the lamp is cold, allowing the lamp to deliver the required total UV dose faster that a cold lamp. This is only true for the second 0.5 liter dose – the 90 second dose for 1 liter is always 90 seconds.
When the lamp is below 50°F/10°C, the 0.5 liter dose duration is lengthened by 10 seconds. This is to compensate for the slower “warm-up” portion of the dose. This lengthening of the dose only happens in the 0.5 liter dose since the “warm-up” phase represents a larger percentage of the total dose than it does in the 1.0 liter 90-second dose.
Pressing the button too quickly may result in an unrecognized electronic signal. Wait 15 seconds to allow the SteriPEN to reset and then start again. Push the operating button slowly (hold for 1/2 second) and release. If selecting the 0.5 L dose, pause for a half a second before the second push of the button. If this doesn’t work, please check the batteries.
If the LED light will not come on it could mean one of two things.
This could mean that the batteries need to be replaced or recharged.
This could also mean that there may be something on the battery contacts. Check to make sure that the battery contacts are clean and making good contact.
If neither of these things help please call Tech Support at 1-888-SteriPEN.
If you do not see any visible blue light being emitted from your SteriPEN, there are a few things you can check:
First, check to make sure that you have the batteries aligned correctly and that nothing is keeping them from making contact with the battery contacts (a serial number sticker may come loose and break the connection between contacts and batteries).
Make sure that all of the batteries in the unit are of the same chemistry (e.g., 4 lithium batteries, or 4 nickel metal hydride batteries). If you use different chemistry batteries together this could damage the device.
If the batteries are correctly aligned and you attempt to use the pen again but still see no visible light please call Tech Support at 1-888-SteriPEN for further assistance.
The best resource for finding the cause and solution for a particular warning signal is contained in your product's User Guide, which can be accessed under Support.
SteriPEN water sensors look for electrical conductivity to indicate the presence of water. In most cases water has enough trace mineral content to allow for a small amount of electrical current. On occasion though, very pure water may be encountered – most often in areas where water is from recent snow melt. Since very pure water is a poor electrical conductor, the sensors may not conduct enough electricity to recognize the water. This can easily be corrected by adding a small pinch of salt, or a drop or two of some kind of electrolyte beverage to the water.
SteriPEN water sensors look for electrical conductivity to indicate the presence of water. In most cases water has enough trace mineral content to allow for a small amount of electrical current. On occasion though, very pure water may be encountered – most often in areas where water is from recent snow melt. Since very pure water is a poor electrical conductor, the sensors may only function marginally resulting in an incomplete UV dose. This can easily be corrected by adding a small pinch of salt, or a drop or two of some kind of electrolyte beverage to the water.
If the problem is occuring when charging from wall power, please be sure you have been charging for at least 3 hours. If you have done so, please call Tech Support at 1-888-SteriPEN.
If the trouble is occuring when charging from solar power, be sure the solar panel is oriented toward the sun per the instructions on the bottom of the Solar charging Case. be cetain that you are using rechargeable batteries - charging non-rechargeable batteries can cause a fire hazard.
The best thing to do is call Tech Support at 1-888-SteriPEN or email us at support@steripen.com to first make sure the SteriPEN does in fact need to be returned. If so, the technician will issue a return authorization (RA) number. When sending the product back please make sure to enclose a short note on what the problem was and also include your phone number and address for return shipping. Always return product with a tracking number.
I just got back from South America where I backpacked from the southern tip of the Patagonia Andes all the way up through Bolivia and into Peru. The SteriPEN worked without fail."
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