Frequently Asked Questions

What is a UV-C LED water filter and how does it work?

A UV-C LED water filter uses ultraviolet light in the germicidal range (260–280 nm) to disinfect water. The UV-C photons penetrate microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, protozoa, fungi, and algae, damaging their DNA and RNA so they cannot reproduce or cause illness. As water flows through the disinfection chamber, the process happens instantly and without chemicals, delivering safe, fresh-tasting drinking water.

All our filters are engineered to deliver a minimum UV dose of 35 mJ/cm², with our high-flow models exceeding 100 mJ/cm², ensuring consistent microbial inactivation even at peak flow rates.
How is a UV-C LED filter different from traditional mercury UV lamps?

UV-C LED systems are the next-generation alternative to mercury-based lamps:

  • Mercury-free & eco-friendly – No toxic metals or hazardous disposal requirements.
  • Instant Activation – LEDs deliver peak UV dose instantly when water flows, unlike mercury lamps that require warm-up.
  • Energy efficient – On-demand operation reduces power use and heat output.
  • Long lifespan – LEDs last up to 5–8 years versus ~1 year for mercury lamps.
  • Compact design – Ideal for integration into under-sink systems, refrigerators, ice machines, and portable purifiers.
Is UV-C LED water filtration safe for drinking water?

Yes. UV-C disinfection is widely trusted in hospitals, laboratories, and municipal water treatment facilities. The process is chemical-free and leaves no byproducts. It does not remove beneficial minerals or alter taste, odor, or pH. What you get is simply safe, clean, microbiologically pure drinking water.
What water quality is required for the UV filter to work effectively?

For optimal UV transmission and microbial inactivation, the feed water should meet these conditions:

  • Turbidity: < 1 NTU (ideally < 0.1 NTU)
  • Hardness: < 120 mg/L as CaCO₃ (120 ppm)
  • Iron (Fe): < 0.3 mg/L (0.3 ppm)
  • Manganese (Mn): < 0.05 mg/L (0.05 ppm)
  • Hydrogen Sulfide: Non-detectable (max ~0.05 mg/L)

If your water exceeds these values, we recommend pre-filtration (sediment, carbon, or softening) to ensure UV effectiveness.
What contaminants does UV-C remove or inactivate?

UV-C LED sterilizers don’t physically filter out particles or chemicals. Instead, they inactivate microorganisms by disrupting their genetic material. Our systems are proven effective against:

  • Bacteria: E. coli, Salmonella, Legionella, coliforms
  • Viruses: Rotavirus, Norovirus, Hepatitis A, enteric viruses
  • Protozoa: Giardia, Cryptosporidium
  • Other microbes: Fungi, yeasts, algae

For complete water treatment, UV is typically paired with carbon or sediment filters to remove physical particles, chlorine, heavy metals, and chemical pollutants.
Does the filter change the taste or smell of water?

No. UV-C only affects microorganisms and leaves minerals untouched. The water retains its natural composition and tastes fresh, crisp, and clean.
How long does a UV-C LED filter last before replacement?

Traditional mercury UV lamps last ~9,000 hours (~1 year). In contrast, our UV-C LED filters are engineered for long-term performance:

  • Standard models: Up to 5 years of operation
  • Pro models (stainless steel): Up to 8 years of operation

When used with flow switches, LEDs only activate when water flows, delivering the maximum UV dose while conserving energy and extending service life. With good water quality and proper pre-filtration, filters often surpass their rated lifespan.
Is installation difficult? Can I do it myself?

Most UV-C LED units are designed for simple installation under sinks, in-line with existing plumbing, or inside appliances. Many homeowners handle installation themselves with basic tools. If you’d rather not DIY, any plumber can set it up quickly.
How much maintenance is required?

Maintenance is minimal. Unlike mercury UV lamps, there are no fragile bulbs to replace. Just ensure your pre-filtration is maintained to keep turbidity and mineral content within limits. At the end of the LED’s service life (5–8 years depending on model), the LED module can be replaced.
What happens if the power goes out—does the filter still work?

The LEDs require electricity to function. During a power outage, water will continue to flow but will not be disinfected. For areas with frequent outages, we recommend a battery backup or an alternative water treatment solution.
Are UV-C LED filters eco-friendly?

Yes. Especially when paired with flow switch, they use significantly less power than mercury lamps, operate only when water flows, and contain no hazardous mercury. This makes them safer for your home and more sustainable for the environment.
Do I still need a regular carbon or sediment filter along with UV-C?

In most cases, yes. UV-C ensures microbiological safety but doesn’t remove particles, chlorine, or chemical contaminants. Pairing it with a sediment or carbon filter gives you water that’s both safe and great-tasting.
Can I use it with well water or only municipal tap water?

Absolutely. Both municipal and well water can be treated. With well water, pre-filtration is particularly important since turbidity, iron, or manganese can block UV light and reduce effectiveness. We strongly recommend a water quality test before installation.
Is it safe for children and pets?

Absolutely. Because UV-C filtration is chemical-free, the water is completely safe for all family members, including children and pets.
What certifications or testing do your filters have?

Our systems are independently tested and certified:

  • CE Certified — Compliance with EU product, electrical, and safety requirements.
  • FCC Compliant — Verified for electromagnetic compatibility and safe operation in the U.S.
  • RoHS Compliant — Mercury-free and environmentally friendly, with no restricted hazardous substances.
  • FDA Food Contact Compliance — All wetted parts and stainless-steel components pass U.S. FDA requirements (21 CFR 177.1520 & 177.2470) for safe contact with drinking water.
  • Third-Party Laboratory Testing — Independently verified to achieve up to 99.99% (4-log) reduction of bacteria, viruses, protozoa, fungi, and algae.
  • Innest products are currently going through the strict NSF/ANSI 55 certification that should validate their UV disinfection performance.
How much energy does a UV-C LED filter use?

The instantaneous power draw of a UV-C LED filter is similar to that of a mercury lamp, but LEDs are far more efficient in real-world use. Mercury UV systems must remain on continuously — and require preheating before they’re effective.

In contrast, our UV-C LEDs, when paired with a flow switch, stay in standby mode with a low “maintenance dose” and ramp instantly to full disinfection power only when water flows. This on-demand operation saves electricity, eliminates warm-up delays, and significantly extends LED lifespan.

Depending on water usage patterns, UV-C LED systems can consume up to 100 times less energy (kWh per year) compared to traditional mercury UV lamps.