FAQ
You have questions. We have answers.
What is UV-C?
UV-C is invisible light with a wavelength between 200nm and 280nm in wavelength. This light has special germicidal properties, which means that UV-C is capable of inactivating microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and mold. It has been used since 1910 in wastewater treatment, and since the 1920s and 30s for air and surface disinfection.
How does UV-C disinfection work?
UV-C damages the DNA and RNA of microorganisms and disrupts vital cellular functions, like replication. The germicidal properties of UV-C have been studied, understood, and proven for over 100 years, and thousands of peer-reviewed studies proving efficacy have been published to date.
Is UV-C safe to use around people?
No. UV-C can cause skin and eye irritation if humans are exposed, so the Arc should only be used in unoccupied rooms. The R-Zero Arc has redundant safety mechanisms including a pre-cycle countdown to allow operators to leave the room safely before a cycle begins, and intrusion detection that automatically shuts the device down if a person enters the room during treatment.
Can UV-C penetrate glass?
No. UV-C cannot penetrate glass, so you can run a disinfection cycle in rooms that have windows without harming anyone or anything on the other side of the windows.
Is UV-C safe to use in the kitchen around food? Is it safe to eat food that’s been exposed to UV-C light?
Yes. Since UV-C is just light, it’s safe to use around food. No harmful chemicals or pesticides, just naturally occurring light. You can leave an apple out on the counter, treat the room, then eat the apple immediately afterwards without risk.
Where do I position R-Zero Arc?
We recommend that you locate the device centrally in the room that you’re treating. If there are large obstructions in the room that may cause shadowing, we recommend running two shorter (3-5 minute) cycles on either side of the obstruction for maximum efficacy. Our team of specialists will help you determine positioning within your space as a part of the onboarding process.
How long does an R-Zero Arc cycle take?
Arc can inactivate over 99.99% of certain organisms in a 1,000 square foot space in about 7 minutes. Larger rooms take slightly longer, while smaller rooms like hotel rooms, bathrooms, and patient rooms in hospitals can be treated in less time, typically 3-5 minutes. However, the touch time required is about 2 minutes per cycle. While a cycle is running, operators can be productive, for example beginning manual disinfection of the next space.
How many R-Zero Arc devices do I need for my space?
The R-Zero Arc is built to fit seamlessly into the existing operations of your organization. The size of your space, the desired frequency of disinfection, and your existing workflows can all inform the number of devices your team needs. Our sales team can provide recommendations tailored to your unique operational needs.
What kind of training does my team need?
Onboarding and training with R-Zero’s team of specialists is included with every purchase. We will teach your team how to use the device safely and effectively, and also provide support and guidance. These sessions will be scheduled after purchase of the device.
How often do the light bulbs need to be replaced for the R-Zero Arc?
The bulbs are rated for 16,000 hours, but your lease includes 1 full set of replacement bulbs per year – 8 bulbs for the device.
Does the R-Zero Arc produce ozone?
No. R-Zero uses bulbs with a special type of glass that blocks the transmission of the 185nm wavelength of light that typically creates ozone for other UV-C devices.
What microorganisms does R-Zero’s UV-C device destroy?
UV-C has been proven to work on viruses, bacteria, germs, and other microorganisms, but also on fungi and molds. So not only will the R-Zero Arc work on the toughest microorganisms, including antibiotic-resistant strains, but it will also destroy fungi and mold and eliminate the unpleasant smells that typically accompany mold spores.
Is R-Zero Vive safe to run while the room is occupied?
Yes! R-Zero Vive uses a wavelength of 222nm which does not penetrate the outer layers of the eyes or skin so it’s safe to use in occupied and unoccupied rooms.
Does R-Zero Vive produce any harmful byproducts?
No! R-Zero Vive meets the UL 864 standard for ozone regulation and is designed to not produce any harmful levels of ozone or other VOCs.
How effective is R-Zero Vive?
R-Zero Vive inactivates 99.9% of many microorganisms in the air and on surfaces.
How many devices do I need for my space?
R-Zero Vive works for 169 sq ft per device. Depending on the spaces you are covering you will need a different number of devices. A layered approach to disinfection works best.
How is R-Zero Vive installed?
R-Zero Vive is easily installed into existing 100-240 VAC lighting circuits.
How do I turn R-Zero Vive on/off?
R-Zero Vive uses PIR sensors to turn on when a room is occupied so that it’s actively disinfecting as air and surfaces are contaminated. It also can be set through R-Zero Connect to be optimized in terms of energy and number of people using the room.
How long can I be exposed to R-Zero Vive?
The R-Zero Vive emits Far UV light which doesn’t penetrate the outer layers or skin or eyes, so prolonged exposure is safe for humans. The ACGIH has proposed a threshold limit value (TLV) for humans of 500mj/cm2 over an 8 hour day, and the R-Zero Vive irradiates less than 10% of that, well below the proposed TLV.
What does my Vive LED status indicate?
The LED located in the center of your Vive is your indicator for the current status. For example, when you turn your Vive on, you will see a yellow pulsing light while it is booting up. When disinfection cycles are actively running it will appear to be a pulsing blue light.
For the full list of possible device statuses, use this indicator chart.
How do I know Vive is safe for my eyes and skin?
Vive emits Far UV-C light (222nm) which doesn’t penetrate the outer layers of skin or eyes, so prolonged exposure is safe for humans.
The ACGIH has set a threshold limit value (TLV) as a recommended maximum dosage for humans over an 8-hour day. The current TLV for human eyes is 161 mJ/cm2. Vive can detect the presence of people and is programmed with a daily run time limit to ensure it will not exceed the current TLV under any circumstances.
R-Zero manages the installation of Vives, including all safety commissioning to ensure they do not exceed the established TLVs and meet all safety and regulatory requirements in each space they are deployed.
It is always safe for people to be in the room with Vive as any potentially harmful irradiation is filtered out using a monochromatic filter.
How do I maintain my Vive?
The only maintenance required of a Vive owner is making sure to dust off or clean Vive bulbs every 3-6 months. First ensure that your Vive is powered off and wait 15 minutes for the bulbs to cool down. We recommend using Isopropyl Alcohol wipes or any type of lens wipe.
How and when do I replace bulbs?
The lifespan of a Vive Krypton Chloride Excimer bulb typically lasts around 3,000 hours, or 1 year under normal operating conditions. A healthy bulb has a light pink hue when it is running disinfection cycles.
If you notice a bulb starts fading in color or has dark patches in the bulb, please reach out to the Customer Success team.
The image below shows a bulb that needs replaced (left), and a brand new bulb (right).
Is R-Zero Beam safe to run while the room is occupied?
Yes! R-Zero Beam has been designed to keep occupants safe from the powerful UV over their heads. The UV level is maintained below established exposure limits. Safety information can be monitored through R-Zero Connect.
Does R-Zero Beam produce any harmful byproducts?
No. R-Zero Beam harnesses the power of UV light to disinfect and uses no chemicals. It produces no Ozone. Additionally, there is no need for potentially hazardous filter changes.
How effective is R-Zero Beam?
R-Zero Beam can reduce airborne microorganism load in a well-mixed room by up to 99.9% in minutes. This is equivalent to replacing the air in the room with fresh air 12-16 times per hour. It is effective against a variety of common bacteria and viruses.
How many devices do I need for my space?
R-Zero’s Beam coverage area is 500 ft2. R-Zero’s team of experts will help determine the layout and positioning that is right for your space, optimizing safety and efficacy.
How is R-Zero Beam installed?
R-Zero Beam is designed to be easily installed to the wall or ceiling. It can be installed directly into 120-240 VAC wiring. R-Zero leverages a network of trained installers, ensuring that when the installers leave, the system is live.
How do I turn R-Zero Beam on and off?
R-Zero Beam employs a PIR sensor to monitor the room and turn the device on automatically when anyone enters. The fixture then turns off after occupants leave the room, enabling maximum efficiency. Alternatively, R-Zero Beam can be operated via R-Zero Connect.
How does Beam impact plants in the room?
There are limited scientific studies of UV-C exposure to plants and damage causing thresholds. R-Zero is currently investigating this topic so that we can help our customers mitigate any adverse effects to their plants while improving their indoor air quality.
In general, if your plants are being over exposed, you will start to see mild yellowing of the leaves.
This damage is reversible, and preventable, and we have found the following best practices can prevent plant damage:
- Avoid having plants above 7’ high in the room, if that is unavoidable, move the plants to the adjacent wall the the Beam is mounted on.
- Avoid having plants within 8’ of the Vive.
- Directly in front of the Beam will have the highest levels of UV-C that may be harmful to plants, consider move sensitive species to the sides of the room.
- Plexiglass or glass barriers block UV-C and can be used to shield plants from exposure.
What does my Beam LED status indicate?
The LED next to the power switch is your indicator for the current status of your Beam. For example, when you turn your Beam on, you will see a yellow pulsing light while it is booting up. When disinfection cycles are actively running it will appear to be a pulsing blue light.
For the full list of possible device statuses, use this indicator chart.
How do I know Beam is safe for my eyes and skin?
Beam is mounted 7’ or higher in the room to ensure the effective dose of UV-C light (265nm) in the Upper Room does not reach occupants in the room.
After installation, each Beam is individually commissioned by a trained technician to ensure all areas of the room are in accordance with regulatory and industry guidelines set by the ACGIH. R-Zero ensures UV levels in all areas are safe for the skin and eyes.
As the only LED-based UR-UVGI product in the market, Beam is unique in that the intensity of UV-C can be calibrated to ensure maximum efficacy while maintaining safety for all occupants.
How do I maintain my Beam?
The only maintenance required of a Beam owner is making sure to dust off or clean Beam bulbs every 3-6 months. First ensure that your Beam is powered off and wait 15 minutes for the bulbs to cool down. We recommend using Isopropyl Alcohol wipes or any type of lens wipe.
How do Beam sensors work?
Beam utilizes two sets of Passive Infrared Sensors (PIR) that send commands to the device when they sense motion in the room.
The occupancy zone sensor (OZPIR) is located below the baffle, next to the power switch. When motion is sensed in the room, the OZPIR tells the Beam to start running disinfection cycles. The Beam will continue to disinfect for 15 minutes after the occupancy sensor last detects motion.
Two disinfection zone sensors (DZPIR) are located above the baffle on either side of the LED light bars. These two sensors detect motion above the baffle, in the high intensity disinfection zone. When motion is sensed in the upper room disinfection zone, the DZPIR immediately stops the disinfection cycle. Beam will stay in a paused state until the DZPIR no longer senses motion to ensure that the area is clear.
How and when do I replace bulbs?
The lifespan of a Beam LED bulb typically lasts around 10,000 hours, or 3 years under normal operating conditions.
What is UV-C?
UV-C is invisible light with a wavelength between 200nm and 280nm in wavelength. This light has special germicidal properties, which means that UV-C is capable of inactivating microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and mold. It has been used since 1910 in wastewater treatment, and since the 1920s and 30s for air and surface disinfection.
How does UV-C disinfection work?
UV-C damages the DNA and RNA of microorganisms and disrupts vital cellular functions, like replication. The germicidal properties of UV-C have been studied, understood, and proven for over 100 years, and thousands of peer-reviewed studies proving efficacy have been published to date.
Is UV-C safe to use around people?
No. UV-C can cause skin and eye irritation if humans are exposed, so the Arc should only be used in unoccupied rooms. The R-Zero Arc has redundant safety mechanisms including a pre-cycle countdown to allow operators to leave the room safely before a cycle begins, and intrusion detection that automatically shuts the device down if a person enters the room during treatment.
Can UV-C penetrate glass?
No. UV-C cannot penetrate glass, so you can run a disinfection cycle in rooms that have windows without harming anyone or anything on the other side of the windows.
Is UV-C safe to use in the kitchen around food? Is it safe to eat food that’s been exposed to UV-C light?
Yes. Since UV-C is just light, it’s safe to use around food. No harmful chemicals or pesticides, just naturally occurring light. You can leave an apple out on the counter, treat the room, then eat the apple immediately afterwards without risk.
Where do I position R-Zero Arc?
We recommend that you locate the device centrally in the room that you’re treating. If there are large obstructions in the room that may cause shadowing, we recommend running two shorter (3-5 minute) cycles on either side of the obstruction for maximum efficacy. Our team of specialists will help you determine positioning within your space as a part of the onboarding process.
How long does an R-Zero Arc cycle take?
Arc can inactivate over 99.99% of certain organisms in a 1,000 square foot space in about 7 minutes. Larger rooms take slightly longer, while smaller rooms like hotel rooms, bathrooms, and patient rooms in hospitals can be treated in less time, typically 3-5 minutes. However, the touch time required is about 2 minutes per cycle. While a cycle is running, operators can be productive, for example beginning manual disinfection of the next space.
How many R-Zero Arc devices do I need for my space?
The R-Zero Arc is built to fit seamlessly into the existing operations of your organization. The size of your space, the desired frequency of disinfection, and your existing workflows can all inform the number of devices your team needs. Our sales team can provide recommendations tailored to your unique operational needs.
What kind of training does my team need?
Onboarding and training with R-Zero’s team of specialists is included with every purchase. We will teach your team how to use the device safely and effectively, and also provide support and guidance. These sessions will be scheduled after purchase of the device.
How often do the light bulbs need to be replaced for the R-Zero Arc?
The bulbs are rated for 16,000 hours, but your lease includes 1 full set of replacement bulbs per year – 8 bulbs for the device.
Does the R-Zero Arc produce ozone?
No. R-Zero uses bulbs with a special type of glass that blocks the transmission of the 185nm wavelength of light that typically creates ozone for other UV-C devices.
What microorganisms does R-Zero’s UV-C device destroy?
UV-C has been proven to work on viruses, bacteria, germs, and other microorganisms, but also on fungi and molds. So not only will the R-Zero Arc work on the toughest microorganisms, including antibiotic-resistant strains, but it will also destroy fungi and mold and eliminate the unpleasant smells that typically accompany mold spores.
Is R-Zero Vive safe to run while the room is occupied?
Yes! R-Zero Vive uses a wavelength of 222nm which does not penetrate the outer layers of the eyes or skin so it’s safe to use in occupied and unoccupied rooms.
Does R-Zero Vive produce any harmful byproducts?
No! R-Zero Vive meets the UL 864 standard for ozone regulation and is designed to not produce any harmful levels of ozone or other VOCs.
How effective is R-Zero Vive?
R-Zero Vive inactivates 99.9% of many microorganisms in the air and on surfaces.
How many devices do I need for my space?
R-Zero Vive works for 169 sq ft per device. Depending on the spaces you are covering you will need a different number of devices. A layered approach to disinfection works best.
How is R-Zero Vive installed?
R-Zero Vive is easily installed into existing 100-240 VAC lighting circuits.
How do I turn R-Zero Vive on/off?
R-Zero Vive uses PIR sensors to turn on when a room is occupied so that it’s actively disinfecting as air and surfaces are contaminated. It also can be set through R-Zero Connect to be optimized in terms of energy and number of people using the room.
How long can I be exposed to R-Zero Vive?
The R-Zero Vive emits Far UV light which doesn’t penetrate the outer layers or skin or eyes, so prolonged exposure is safe for humans. The ACGIH has proposed a threshold limit value (TLV) for humans of 500mj/cm2 over an 8 hour day, and the R-Zero Vive irradiates less than 10% of that, well below the proposed TLV.
What does my Vive LED status indicate?
The LED located in the center of your Vive is your indicator for the current status. For example, when you turn your Vive on, you will see a yellow pulsing light while it is booting up. When disinfection cycles are actively running it will appear to be a pulsing blue light.
For the full list of possible device statuses, use this indicator chart.
How do I know Vive is safe for my eyes and skin?
Vive emits Far UV-C light (222nm) which doesn’t penetrate the outer layers of skin or eyes, so prolonged exposure is safe for humans.
The ACGIH has set a threshold limit value (TLV) as a recommended maximum dosage for humans over an 8-hour day. The current TLV for human eyes is 161 mJ/cm2. Vive can detect the presence of people and is programmed with a daily run time limit to ensure it will not exceed the current TLV under any circumstances.
R-Zero manages the installation of Vives, including all safety commissioning to ensure they do not exceed the established TLVs and meet all safety and regulatory requirements in each space they are deployed.
It is always safe for people to be in the room with Vive as any potentially harmful irradiation is filtered out using a monochromatic filter.
How do I maintain my Vive?
The only maintenance required of a Vive owner is making sure to dust off or clean Vive bulbs every 3-6 months. First ensure that your Vive is powered off and wait 15 minutes for the bulbs to cool down. We recommend using Isopropyl Alcohol wipes or any type of lens wipe.
How and when do I replace bulbs?
The lifespan of a Vive Krypton Chloride Excimer bulb typically lasts around 3,000 hours, or 1 year under normal operating conditions. A healthy bulb has a light pink hue when it is running disinfection cycles.
If you notice a bulb starts fading in color or has dark patches in the bulb, please reach out to the Customer Success team.
The image below shows a bulb that needs replaced (left), and a brand new bulb (right).
Is R-Zero Beam safe to run while the room is occupied?
Yes! R-Zero Beam has been designed to keep occupants safe from the powerful UV over their heads. The UV level is maintained below established exposure limits. Safety information can be monitored through R-Zero Connect.
Does R-Zero Beam produce any harmful byproducts?
No. R-Zero Beam harnesses the power of UV light to disinfect and uses no chemicals. It produces no Ozone. Additionally, there is no need for potentially hazardous filter changes.
How effective is R-Zero Beam?
R-Zero Beam can reduce airborne microorganism load in a well-mixed room by up to 99.9% in minutes. This is equivalent to replacing the air in the room with fresh air 12-16 times per hour. It is effective against a variety of common bacteria and viruses.
How many devices do I need for my space?
R-Zero’s Beam coverage area is 500 ft2. R-Zero’s team of experts will help determine the layout and positioning that is right for your space, optimizing safety and efficacy.
How is R-Zero Beam installed?
R-Zero Beam is designed to be easily installed to the wall or ceiling. It can be installed directly into 120-240 VAC wiring. R-Zero leverages a network of trained installers, ensuring that when the installers leave, the system is live.
How do I turn R-Zero Beam on and off?
R-Zero Beam employs a PIR sensor to monitor the room and turn the device on automatically when anyone enters. The fixture then turns off after occupants leave the room, enabling maximum efficiency. Alternatively, R-Zero Beam can be operated via R-Zero Connect.
How does Beam impact plants in the room?
There are limited scientific studies of UV-C exposure to plants and damage causing thresholds. R-Zero is currently investigating this topic so that we can help our customers mitigate any adverse effects to their plants while improving their indoor air quality.
In general, if your plants are being over exposed, you will start to see mild yellowing of the leaves.
This damage is reversible, and preventable, and we have found the following best practices can prevent plant damage:
- Avoid having plants above 7’ high in the room, if that is unavoidable, move the plants to the adjacent wall the the Beam is mounted on.
- Avoid having plants within 8’ of the Vive.
- Directly in front of the Beam will have the highest levels of UV-C that may be harmful to plants, consider move sensitive species to the sides of the room.
- Plexiglass or glass barriers block UV-C and can be used to shield plants from exposure.
What does my Beam LED status indicate?
The LED next to the power switch is your indicator for the current status of your Beam. For example, when you turn your Beam on, you will see a yellow pulsing light while it is booting up. When disinfection cycles are actively running it will appear to be a pulsing blue light.
For the full list of possible device statuses, use this indicator chart.
How do I know Beam is safe for my eyes and skin?
Beam is mounted 7’ or higher in the room to ensure the effective dose of UV-C light (265nm) in the Upper Room does not reach occupants in the room.
After installation, each Beam is individually commissioned by a trained technician to ensure all areas of the room are in accordance with regulatory and industry guidelines set by the ACGIH. R-Zero ensures UV levels in all areas are safe for the skin and eyes.
As the only LED-based UR-UVGI product in the market, Beam is unique in that the intensity of UV-C can be calibrated to ensure maximum efficacy while maintaining safety for all occupants.
How do I maintain my Beam?
The only maintenance required of a Beam owner is making sure to dust off or clean Beam bulbs every 3-6 months. First ensure that your Beam is powered off and wait 15 minutes for the bulbs to cool down. We recommend using Isopropyl Alcohol wipes or any type of lens wipe.
How do Beam sensors work?
Beam utilizes two sets of Passive Infrared Sensors (PIR) that send commands to the device when they sense motion in the room.
The occupancy zone sensor (OZPIR) is located below the baffle, next to the power switch. When motion is sensed in the room, the OZPIR tells the Beam to start running disinfection cycles. The Beam will continue to disinfect for 15 minutes after the occupancy sensor last detects motion.
Two disinfection zone sensors (DZPIR) are located above the baffle on either side of the LED light bars. These two sensors detect motion above the baffle, in the high intensity disinfection zone. When motion is sensed in the upper room disinfection zone, the DZPIR immediately stops the disinfection cycle. Beam will stay in a paused state until the DZPIR no longer senses motion to ensure that the area is clear.
How and when do I replace bulbs?
The lifespan of a Beam LED bulb typically lasts around 10,000 hours, or 3 years under normal operating conditions.