FAQ: UVMask - Inactivate 99.99% of All Pathogens & Air Pollutants
For the most up-to-date information about the status of our project, check our project updates on Kickstarter!

How do I buy more add-on items (like a hard case and more filters)?

Just follow these steps: 1. Click on “Manage your pledge”. 2. Add the corresponding amount of the add-on to the total of “Your current pledge”. 3. Confirm your new total and keep the same reward option.

Example: if your current pledge is $99 for 1 UVMask and you want 10x additional filter pads, add $12 to your current $99 pledge, for a total of $111.

If you want 10x additional filters and 1x carrying case, the total would be $99+$12+$15= $126 (These amounts will vary depending on your original pledge and desired add-ons.)

Add-ons: - Add $12 for 10x additional filter pads - Add $15 for 1x hard carrying case - Add $15 for 1x extra front shell

Last updated: July 03, 2020 22:52

What is the Guaranteed Delivery or Money Back Policy?

If for any reason, UM Systems does not ship your UVMask to you, we will fully refund your money.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Where can I find details about the 30-day Satisfaction Guarantee?

If you are not 100% satisfied with your purchase, you have 30 calendar days from the date of delivery to request a refund.

Last updated: June 29, 2020 22:21

Is UVMask effective on Covid?

With a combined high filtration efficiency rate, UVMask is tested to be effective in inactivating airborne pathogens. That said, we are actively working with accredited bodies to validate these findings.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

What is the difference between UVMask and other masks on the market?

UVMask is the first in the market that not only purifies and filters all the air you breathe, but also the air you exhale. With its patent-pending UV-C Sterile-Vortex technology and CE-FFP2 filter, UVMask effectively purifies the air that is breathed.

No other mask features a powerful enough UV-C light to purify air in real-time. UVMask’s 2x 265nm 25,000µW (25mW) purifies air over 10x faster than you can breathe.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Do you offer worldwide and EU-friendly shipping?

Yes. We ship worldwide and we use EU-friendly shipping carriers as well.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

What lab certifications does the UVMask have?

We have the SGS Lab CE-FFP2 certification. This is according to EU standards and equivalent to the N95. We also have FDA certification for the food-grade silicone for the mask’s inner layer.

See current certificates from our supply chain: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1_Z1NGHIS7tb7GxfMlPJyqHTpj21shPY2?usp=sharing

Please note we are still in the process of conducting further tests, such as NIOSH and EPA. We will share these as soon as we obtain them.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

When will the shipping start?

Shipping will start in October 2020.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

How much protection does UVMask offer?

For UVMask we have adopted a multibarrier approach. This means that whatever pathogen isn’t neutralized with Air-Filtration (first layer) is surely inactivated by our UV-C enhanced patent-pending Sterile-Vortex technology (second layer).

During the past 40 years, UV-C light has been used to purify drinking water, wastewater, air, pharmaceutical products, and surfaces against various human pathogens, contamination, particulate matters.

While UVMask’s UV-C light purifies the air you breathe in and out, we have made sure that it is 100% safe for humans.

We designed & developed high-grade UVMask to help you breathe the highest air quality regardless of your location or situation

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

What is a PM2.5 air filter?

Our filter is not just a PM2.5 filter. PM2.5 is an understatement. UVMask’s filters are CE-FFP2 (EU standard same as N95). This is a much higher standard than PM2.5. PM2.5 filters only block 25-micron particles. FFP2 filters 0.3-micron particulates with an efficiency of 95%. That’s an improvement of over 8,300%.

See here:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1_Z1NGHIS7tb7GxfMlPJyqHTpj21shPY2?usp=sharing

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

How long can I use the mask without changing the filter and how do I know when to change it?

With normal usage, the UVMask CE-FFP2 air filters offer 40-50 hours of protection before filtration efficiency starts to drop.

How often you change filters depends on how you use your UVMask. See the recommendations below:

*Low use (occasional use while going out in public): Change every 2-3 weeks
*Medium use (wearing consistently over the course of a week): Change weekly
*High use (wearing for multiple hours a day):  Change daily for best protection
Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

What is double breathing protection?

UVMask comes with 2 layers of protection. The first one is a replaceable air filter that removes >95% of all pollutants, allergens, and pathogens.

The air is then sent through our patent-pending ultra-high intensity UV-C Vortex which increases air purification to >99.99% in real-time!

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

What happens to the air I exhale?

The same filtration process as inhaling occurs in the reverse order (first UV-C Sterile-Vortex, then CE-FFP2 filter). So the air you breathe out is also filtered and purified.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

What is the Sterile-Vortex protection and how does it work?

Sterile-Vortex technology is capable of purifying the air as it passes through the patent-pending light-sealed air vortex.

The patent-pending Sterile-Vortex technology breaks down the genetic material bringing total filtration efficiency to 99.99%

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Do you offer a warranty?

Yes, we offer a 12-month warranty.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

What’s the technology used inside UVMask?

UVMask uses two state-of-the-art UV-C LEDs: 265nm 25,000µW (25mW) x2 UV-C LEDs (Total 90mW) Ultra-High Intensity. The sapphire optics for the LEDs ensure the highest efficiency. Regular glass blocks 100% UVC, so sapphire is the best material to ensure UVC passes through the optics at the highest efficiency.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Is there any patented technology?

The entire UVMask is patent-pending. No mask currently produced uses UV-C light at a high enough intensity, or for a long enough period of time to effectively purify the air that is breathed. Thanks to our unique patent-pending Sterile-Vortex design, any air you breathe is purified over 10x faster than the rate at which you can breathe it!

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

How safe is UVMask’s silicone for my skin?

It’s FDA-certified food-grade silicone. 100% safe for your skin.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

UV light is harmful. How can we be sure that the product is safe to use?

UVMask has a fully light-sealed design so UV light will never leak out from the inner component of sterile-vortex. Also, UV-C light in the range of 200 to 280 nm is not the same harmful UV as the primary component of sunlight that reaches us on Earth (UV-A and UV-B are dangerous).

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Does UV-C generate ozone, ionized particles, radiation, or any other harmful gases?

No, UV-C does not render ozone, or ionize or make any other chemical changes to air. See more: http://www.uvresources.com/blog/the-ultraviolet-germicidal-irradiation-uv-c-wavelength/

UV-C light also does not emit any radiation. It is not radioactive.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

How much will replacement filters cost and where can I buy filters after the campaign?

You can get a pack of 10 for $12. This works out at $1.20 per filter. You can add more filters to your current pledge during the live campaign, see the instructions in the previous questions. We will offer them in the post-campaign backer survey and later on our website: https://um.systems You’ll be able to buy a cutting stencil from us as an add-on later in the campaign, allowing you to cut out a compatible filter from any N95 or KN95 masks on the market.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Will the mask fog up my glasses and is it comfortable to wear with (sun)glasses?

The air intake and outtake of UVMask were carefully designed to be on the sides, allowing damp air to vent out from the sides without fogging up your glasses.

Yes, the mask is also comfortable to wear with (sun)glasses, with nose support and over-head straps (or over-ear) design that leaves your ears free.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

How will my voice sound, will I muffle? Is the mask breathable inside?

UVMask’s uniquely designed internal parts with double air intakes and optimized sound engineering allow for effortless breathability and clear sound while speaking.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

How should I clean the mask?

Use soft fabric with a medical alcohol spray to clean the surface gently.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Is the UVMask safe to use by adults and children?

Yes, absolutely. UVMask is safe for all ages

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Does UVMask protect against air pollution, cigarette smoke, and bushfire smoke?

Yes. The first layer of protection in the UVMask is a CE-FFP2 air filter that filters 99% of all PM0.3, PM2.5, and PM10 particles. This includes air smog pollution, cigarette, and bushfire smoke.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

How many colors are available and how do I choose one?

Jet Black and Jet White. You can choose your color in the post-campaign backer survey that we’ll be sending via email after the campaign ends.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

What is the weight and is it comfortable to wear for longer periods of time?

~3 ⅞ oz. (110g). Yes, it is designed to be comfortable even over long periods of time.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

How long does it take to charge UVMask and how long does a full charge last?

1.5 hours (Fast charging) 2-3 hours (5V regular charging) 6 hours. This can be extended with a power bank and a USB-C cable.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

What type of charger do I need?

Any standard USB charging station (charger not included with UVMask). A standard USB-A to USB-C cable is included.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Is the included battery safe?

Yes, we use 2x high-quality 3.7V / 1,200mA high safety standard Li-Polymer (703048) batteries. They have been tested extensively for safety. The current Li-Polymer battery technology will never explode.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Is the battery replaceable?

The battery is not replaceable, you need to charge it with the included USB-C cable. It lasts 6 hours on a single charge and you extend that by plugging it into any power bank.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Are there any battery level indicators in the UVMask?

Yes, there are two LED indicator lights at the upper front of the UVMask. When the light is blue, it means Sterile-Vortex is working normally. When it turns red and blinks, it means the batteries are running low and charging is required. These indicator lights can be seen by the wearer of the mask just below eye level. So it’s visible but not distracting. The key is that the wearer will be able to see the battery level while using it. Battery life can also be extended with an external power bank connected with the UVMask using a standard USB-C cable.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Are there any filter change alarms in UVMask?

There is no automatic alarm. We recommend you set a reminder on your phone, depending on your typical usage pattern:

*Low use (occasional use while going out in public): Change every 2-3 weeks *Medium use (wearing consistently over the course of a week): Change weekly *High use (wearing for multiple hours a day in high risk environments): Change daily for best protection

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Does it come in a child-friendly size?

The mask size is universal and fits children 3 and above. No mask is recommended for babies under the age of 3.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Are the filters designed specifically for UVMask?

Yes, they are.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Can I wash the filter?

No. We do not recommend washing the filter. Additional filters can be purchased from us at any time at a reasonably low cost.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

What happens to UV-C light if the mask is damaged? What are the fail-safe measures in UVMask?

We have developed the product with your safety in mind. Hence the mask comes with two internal layers of protection. The Sterile-Vortex is 100% sealed off, followed by an inner shell ABS/PC protection layer that blocks 100% of UV-C. These two layers ensure a high level of protection in case of damage.

Apart from that, the optics design of UVMask is very specific. The UV-C LEDs point sideways and have very short range focus. So in case, the mask is broken, the UV light will not be directed at the human face, and, hence, will not do any damage.

In all cases, you can always refer to your User Manual where along with other helpful information you will see the advice not to turn the mask on, in case of visible damage.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Is UVMask water-resistant?

Yes. UVMask is rated IP54 water-resistant. Rain falls at a low pressure, so ratings in the IP54 to IP65 range are enough to keep the filter and interior components safe and dry. These ratings are also enough to stop airborne particulates from damaging the filter and components inside the enclosure.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

How long can I continuously wear the mask?

While the battery only lasts 6 hours, you can still wear the mask after the battery runs out. It won’t provide 99.99% purification via the UV-C Sterile-Vortex, but it will still filter 95% of particles larger than 0.3 microns thanks to the passive CE-FFP2 filter.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

How do you change the filters?

Open the front shell (it’s attached by magnets, so it’s very easy to open). Gently remove the orange frame of the filter, slide out the older filter, and slide in the new filter. Put the orange frame back in place. Close the front shell.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

What is it like talking through UVMask?

UVMask’s unique airway design means you can comfortably have a conversation while wearing the mask.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

What’s inside the box of a single UVMask?

1x UVMask 1x Charging Cable 10x CE-FFP2 filter pads The included items change based on your choice in Kickstarter. You can also add additional * filters * hard case * front shell and more, see the page for more details.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Will UVMask offer a warranty on Kickstarter perks?

Yes! UVMask comes with a 1-year limited warranty.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Can I use more than 1 filter in a mask?

Technically yes, but we do not see any benefit of doing so. UVMask already provides a 99.99% protection against all pollutants and allergens, we don’t say 100% because no test can prove that, but it is practically 100%

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

How do I choose the size of my mask and what happens if it doesn’t fit?

UVMask is designed to fit all faces. With its ultra-soft FDA-approved medical-grade skin-like silicone face profile, it adapts to your shape. It is ergonomically designed for comfort and an airtight fit on all face shapes and sizes.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

How well will the mask work if I have a beard?

Our design already considers this with an ultra-soft silicone face profile, which will adapt to your face, including your beard.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

What is the safe upper limit of volumetric flow that UVMask can purify to 99.9%?

6-10 liters per second (normal human breath is about 0.5 liters per breath)

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Will it be comfortable to wear the mask during a run?

Yes. You can wear the straps both around your ears or behind your neck (recommended for active sports). You can run comfortably with UVMask correctly worn.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Is it for only personal use or can it be used by several people?

Personal use is strongly recommended.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

How long do the UV-C bulbs last and will there be any replacements available?

We use two state-of-the-art UV-C LEDs (Made in Japan) in every UVMask which have a minimum lifetime of 10,000 hours. So they will probably last longer than the mask itself, therefore never needing a replacement.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Can UVMask be worn while charging?

Absolutely yes. You can wear it while charging with a power bank for extended hours.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

In case the straps break or become loose, will it be available to buy more, from where, and for how much?

Yes, we will offer replacement straps as add-ons and you can purchase after the campaign ends from our website at a low cost.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Can I add one more masks to my existing pledge?

Yes, just add a fixed $89 to your existing pledge for each additional mask.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Are the filters treated with any solutions or chemicals?

No, we don’t treat the filters with any chemicals. These are non VOC filters, 100% safe for breathing.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

How long can the filters be stored?

Each filter has a five-year shelf life.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

What are the fail-safe measures in the UVMask?

Both batteries and UV-C LCDs are doubled-up for fail-safe backup, on top of the extended power. So if one fails, the other one will still work. We designed our circuit board and MCU power management logic that way to be smart enough to continue operation.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

What are the fail-safe measures so that your UV-C to never hit skin and eyes directly?

UV light is a form of light, so it only travels in straight lines. And UV-C light is easily blocked. Standard window glass, according to the International Ultraviolet Association, will block 100% of the UV-C light. (See: https://hps.org/publicinformation/ate/q12082.html)

While air flows freely through a spiral-shaped channel, UV-C gets 100% trapped and blocked, only confined in the vortex itself. It is this patent-pending design that allowed us to put high-intensity UV-C light safely in a durable ABS/PC walled vortex shape and protected by a further layer of the inner wall in the mask. Furthermore, both UV-C LEDs in the vortex are also positioned sideways, making the projection angle parallel to the human face as an extra layer of fail-safe measure.

So to summarize, UV-C is completely 100% sealed within the vortex chamber and will never leak out and have any skin or eye contact, making it safe and robust.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

Does the mask make a noise and how loud is it?

UVMask does not contain any fans or moving/vibrating parts and therefore it’s 100% silent.

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

What if I have a beard / facial hair?

It all depends on the style of facial hair. We recommend following CDC ‘Facial Hairstyles and Filtering Facepiece’ guidelines, which can be found here: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/images/infographics/FacialHairWmaskLG.jpg

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

What is the recommended operating temperature and storage temperature?

The operation temp is -22°F (-30°C) to 140°F ( 60°C). Storage temperature -20 °F (-5 °C) to +86 °F (+30 °C).

Last updated: July 08, 2020 14:24

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