When it comes to hiking and camping, access to clean water is paramount. The SteriPEN Ultra UV Water Purifier has garnered attention for its innovative use of UV light to purify water, making it a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts. But does it live up to the hype? In this detailed review, we’ll dive into the key features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of the SteriPEN Ultra UV Water Purifier, focusing on its portability, battery life, purification speed, ease of use, and durability.
Portability
One of the standout features of the SteriPEN Ultra UV Water Purifier is its portability. Weighing in at just 4.8 ounces and with dimensions of 7.3 x 1.3 x 1.6 inches, this device is compact and lightweight, making it an excellent addition to any hiker’s gear. Its small size means it can easily fit into a backpack or even a pocket, ensuring that you always have access to clean water without adding significant weight to your load.
The device comes with a protective case, which adds a layer of durability and makes it easy to carry around. Whether you’re on a day hike or a multi-day backpacking trip, the SteriPEN Ultra’s portability ensures that it won’t be a burden.
Battery Life
Battery life is a critical factor for any electronic device used in the wilderness, and the SteriPEN Ultra does not disappoint. The device is USB rechargeable and can be charged from a computer, wall outlet, or solar panel, offering flexibility in how you keep it powered up.
On a full charge, the SteriPEN Ultra can perform up to 50 treatments, each treatment purifying one liter of water. This translates to purifying up to 15,000 liters over the device’s lifetime, thanks to its 300 charge-discharge cycles. This impressive battery life means you can rely on the SteriPEN Ultra for extended trips without constantly worrying about recharging.
However, it’s worth noting that the device’s reliance on a battery means you need to plan for recharging, especially on longer trips. Bringing a portable solar charger or an extra power bank can be a good idea to ensure you never run out of juice.
Purification Speed
Speed is another area where the SteriPEN Ultra excels. The device uses UV light to destroy over 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, making water safe to drink in just 90 seconds for one liter. This quick purification process is a significant advantage over traditional methods like boiling or using chemical treatments, which can be time-consuming and cumbersome.
The SteriPEN Ultra’s fast purification speed makes it ideal for hikers who need to quickly treat water on the go. Whether you’re filling up from a stream or a lake, you can have clean water ready in less than two minutes, allowing you to stay hydrated and keep moving.
Ease of Use
Ease of use is a crucial factor for any outdoor gear, and the SteriPEN Ultra scores high in this category. The device features a simple OLED display that shows treatment progress, lamp status, and battery life, making it easy to operate even for beginners.
Using the SteriPEN Ultra is straightforward: simply press the button to activate the UV light, immerse the device in the water, and stir until the treatment is complete. The OLED display provides clear feedback, ensuring you know when the water is safe to drink.
However, it’s essential to note that the SteriPEN Ultra works best with clear water. If the water is cloudy or contains particulates, pre-filtering is necessary to ensure effective UV treatment. This additional step can be a minor inconvenience but is crucial for the device to work correctly.
Durability
Durability is always a concern for outdoor gear, and the SteriPEN Ultra is designed to withstand the rigors of hiking and camping. The device’s plastic construction is robust enough to handle typical outdoor conditions, and the included protective case adds an extra layer of security.
While the SteriPEN Ultra is generally durable, it’s not immune to potential issues. Some users have reported problems with the UV lamp or the device’s electronics failing over time. However, these instances appear to be relatively rare, and the device comes with a three-year manufacturer warranty, providing peace of mind.
Benefits and Issues
Benefits
- Effective Purification: The SteriPEN Ultra destroys over 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, ensuring safe drinking water.
- Quick and Convenient: Purifies one liter of water in just 90 seconds, making it ideal for on-the-go use.
- Portable and Lightweight: Compact design and lightweight construction make it easy to carry.
- Long Battery Life: Up to 50 treatments per charge and 300 charge-discharge cycles, providing reliable performance over time.
- User-Friendly: Simple OLED display and easy operation make it accessible for all users.
Issues
- Dependence on Battery: Requires regular recharging, which can be a concern on longer trips.
- Pre-Filtering Needed: Works best with clear water, necessitating pre-filtering for cloudy or particulate-laden water.
- Potential Durability Concerns: Some reports of UV lamp or electronic failures, though these are relatively rare.
Conclusion
The SteriPEN Ultra UV Water Purifier is a powerful and convenient tool for hikers and campers who need reliable access to clean water. Its portability, quick purification speed, and user-friendly design make it a standout choice for outdoor enthusiasts. While it does have some potential drawbacks, such as the need for pre-filtering and dependence on battery power, these are minor compared to the benefits it offers.
Overall, the SteriPEN Ultra is a valuable addition to any hiker’s gear, providing peace of mind and ensuring you stay hydrated with safe, clean water on your adventures. If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient water purification solution, the SteriPEN Ultra is well worth considering.