FAQs

Why sanitize a doorknob?

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has long recognized doorknobs as a leading cause of germ transmission. They are breeding grounds for bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other pathogenic germs. The study linked below demonstrates the shocking speed viruses can be spread throughout an office in only a few short hours.  Citrus is an effective, easy to install product that utilizes a simple concept to eliminate the risk of sickness transmission posed by the doors we use every day, in our home and in public spaces.

*Video is property of Inside Science TV and is not associated with Citrus

HOW DOES CITRUS SANITIZE DOORKNOB/LEVER SURFACES?

Citrus disinfects surfaces by emitting ultraviolet light at the “germicidal” wavelength of 270-285nm. This wavelength is within the ultraviolet-C band (UV-C) which has been scientifically proven to kill or inactivate microorganisms (viruses, bacteria, fungi, etc.) by destroying their nucleic acids and disrupting their DNA. Today, UV-C light is used in countless applications in order to purify the air you breathe, the water you drink, and the surfaces you touch.

Does Citrus disinfect the face of the door handle?

The current version of Citrus does not disinfect parts of the face of a door handle. This is on purpose as hand contact on most commonly used door handles is made with the rim and backside - this is the focused disinfection area of Citrus. In order to disinfect the face of the door handle an additional two UV-C LEDs would be needed. The additional battery usage and cost would be impractical considering the limited benefit provided.

Can Citrus kill the coronavirus?

Although empirical tests are not available for coronavirus specifically, the similarity to SARS and MERS (positive-sense single-stranded RNV viruses) indicates Citrus will be highly effective. Research on SARS found that the virus is  significantly reduced when exposed to UVC irradiation stronger than 90 μW/cm2. Citrus surpasses this level even at the furthest point of any door handle.

How effective is the UV-C light emitted by Citrus?

Citrus has been tested and proven by Rutgers University’s Department of Biomedical Engineering Center for Innovative Ventures of Emerging Technologies and independently tested by a Cornell University fellow have yielded results showing the Citrus LED UV-C is more than 99% effective in killing Escherichia. coli (E. coli), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) , and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus).

HOW EFFECTIVE IS THE UV-C LIGHT EMITTED BY CITRUS IN KILLING THE COMMON FLU (RHINOVIRUS)?

The DNA of all living microbials like viruses, bacteria, fungi, etc. are structurally altered by UV-C light, but some are more resistant than others. The scientific community has cataloged the specific amounts of UV-C exposure necessary to alter/destroy various microorganisms and these results can be applied to determine the capabilities of Citrus. The influenza virus is 99.9% killed by Citrus at its closest point to the LED UV-C and 90% killed at its furthest point.  The following link provides an efficacy rate for common bacteria, viruses, fungi, molds, protozoa and yeasts.

Why is Citrus necessary after washing hands in the bathroom?

Studies have shown a thorough, vigorous handwashing of at least 30 seconds to be 99.9% effective in eliminating germs. However, the reality is most people fail to meet these hygienic standards. In addition, many bathroom doors require users to touch a door handle while entering and existing a bathroom by both opening on one side and closing on the other. This means a contaminated door handle is often the first surface touched by a recently washed hand. CITRUS kills germs and viruses every time the door is used, unlike wipes that only sanitizes when they are manually applied.

WILL CITRUS REDUCE THE SPREAD OF GERMS WITHIN MY HOUSEHOLD?

Citrus is designed to reduce the spreading of viruses, bacteria, fungi, etc. from person to person via the doorknob/lever which is one of the most common ways these germs spread. It does that effectively, so you and your family are exposed to less potential harmful germs. Less exposure and transmission of germs means less risk  for sickness.

How does Citrus protect my family from the potentially harmful damage of UV-C light?

Citrus keeps hands safe by utilizing a motion detecting sensor that temporarily shuts off the unit when a door handle is being used. This protects you and your family from exposure while still experiencing the benefits of the product.

Is Citrus easy to install?

Citrus was designed with the consumer in mind. Ease of use and installation was top of mind when we developed Citrus. Citrus can be installed in 4 easy steps.

How durable is the adhesive tape that holds the baseplate over time?

The adhesive tape is quite durable however, if it becomes loose over time, simply replace the adhesive tape with "3M Command Medium Picture Hanging Strips" and reapply the baseplate.

Is a new door handle required to use Citrus?

Citrus works on all standard doorknobs and door levers. No hardware changes of any kind are required.

If I don’t have a standard door knob and/or I have a deadbolt lock, will Citrus fit?

Citrus will fit most door knobs as they generally have the same baseplate size. To accommodate a deadbolt, flip the baseplate upside down.

WHERE SHOULD CITRUS BE PLACED IN THE MY HOME?

We recommend installing Citrus on the most commonly used doors in the household, starting with your bathroom doors.  We also recommend installing on high traffic doors such as pantry doors, doors that lead into the garage, and other entry doors into the house (just remember to account for any locks that could get in the way).

What is the battery life for Citrus?

For a typical household of four, on a bathroom door (most used door in a house), the batteries are estimated to be replaced on a monthly basis. In a household of two, the replacement rate is estimated for every two months and for a single occupant household, the battery will typically last for four months. Citrus is currently working on improving the battery life and integrating “smart” technology.

IS CITRUS AVAILABLE TO INSTALL IN BOTH RESIDENTIAL HOMES AND COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS?

Leveraging innovative technology and design, Citrus revolutionizes the sanitation of one of the most commonly touched surfaces - door handles. Launching the first residential and commercially viable system, Citrus makes this breakthrough accessible to businesses and everyday consumers alike.

HOW DO I PURCHASE CITRUS?

Citrus is officially launching both residential and commercial models soon.