Can the germicidal lamps be turned on and off continuously?
There are three types of germicidal UV lamps: (1) “Cold Cathode” lamps are instant-start, using a large cylindrical cathode instead of a coil filament so the lamps have a very long life unaffected by frequency of starting. (2) “Slimline” lamps are also instant-start and are available in low-, high- and very high-ozone types. Their lamp life is governed by the electrode life and number of starts. Because of their high initial UV emission and good maintenance, Slimline UV Germicidal Lamps are well adapted for applications such as air cooling and heating systems, conveyor lines, water sterilization and other applications that require around-the-clock” use. (3) “Hot Cathode,” or preheat/hot cathode, lamps generally use standard, off-the-shelf fluorescent ballasts, providing advantages in economy and space. Preheat lamps have four electrical connections per lamp and require more wiring than instant-start lamps. Frequent starts/stops will reduce the lamp life of Hot Cathode lamps.
