The Disadvantages of Steripen

The Steripen is a small, hand-held water purifier made by Hydro-Photon, Inc. that uses ultraviolet light to kill the bacteria, viruses and diseases that sometimes dwell in water and can make you very sick. It comes in several models, and is a great tool for backpackers and hikers, or for people in emergency situations or traveling to exotic parts of the world. There are, however, a few disadvantages that come along with its many benefits.

  1. Fragile

    • The ultraviolet light on the end of the Steripen is encased in glass. Although it comes with a protective cover, it’s very fragile and easy to break. If the glass is broken or fractured, the device won’t work.

    Requires Batteries

    • When you’re out in the woods for long periods of time, in another country for weeks or months on end, or in a prolonged emergency situation, you may not have access to fresh batteries. This is a problem you won’t run into with iodine or chlorine tablets, which also purify water.

    Occasional Malfunctions

    • Some reviewers of the Steripen--on sights like Trailspace, for example--complain about the device malfunctioning, sometimes in cold weather and at other time, or for no specific reason. Although Hydro-Photon, Inc. replaces broken Streripens, that doesn’t help if you need clean water immediately.