AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-Mount can be disinfected with alcohol? The manufacturer explains the correct cleaning method

AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-MountCan it be disinfected with alcohol? UNIFIVE, the manufacturer, explains a list of usable and non-usable disinfectants and the correct cleaning procedures. We also introduce Products suitable for environments with high disinfection frequency, such as medical settings and factories.

With the recent increase in hygiene awareness, there is growing demand for frequent disinfection and cleaning not only of PCs and monitors but also of peripheral devices such as AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-Mount and chargers.

In particular, medical and nursing care facilities may be required to regularly disinfect medical equipment and its peripherals as part of infection control measures. In addition, food factories and commercial kitchens require daily cleaning to meet hygiene standards. Furthermore, in office environments where many unspecified users come into contact with equipment, such as coworking spaces and shared desks, disinfecting power adapters has become an important topic.

However, disinfecting precision devices such as AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-Mount using improper methods may cause malfunctions, short circuits, or material deterioration.

In this article, based on the expertise of UNIFIVE, an AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-Mount manufacturer, we clearly explain safe and effective cleaning and disinfection methods.

1. Compatibility of UNIFIVE AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-Mount with Alcohol

In conclusion, UNIFIVE AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-Mount can be disinfected with alcohol.

The reason lies in the material used for the product housing (case). Our representative Products (such as UB310-0520) use polycarbonate (PC), a plastic material with excellent impact resistance and chemical resistance.

[Key Point] Differences by Material

Some inexpensive commercially available AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-Mount use ABS resin. ABS resin has lower alcohol resistance than polycarbonate and may develop surface cracks (chemical cracks) with repeated use. It is important to check the adapter material before disinfecting.

Disinfecting Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol)

It does not attack PC material or metal parts and can be used safely.

Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA)

Similarly, it does not affect PC material or metal terminals. IPA is widely used for cleaning electronic devices and has the advantage of high volatility, allowing it to dry quickly.

High-Concentration Alcohol

Even when using a high-concentration disinfectant close to 100%, we judge that there is no impact on the AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-Mount itself. However, from a disinfection effectiveness standpoint, a concentration of around 70-80% is considered most effective, so excessively high concentrations are unnecessary.

[Caution] Methyl Alcohol (Methanol) Cannot Be Used

Although it is also called "alcohol," methyl alcohol (methanol) is highly aggressive toward polycarbonate and cannot be used. When purchasing disinfectants, check the ingredient label to ensure it is ethanol or isopropyl alcohol (IPA). Details are explained in the next section.

2. Disinfectants to Absolutely Avoid

Caution is required for chemicals other than alcohol. The following agents may cause malfunction or accelerate material deterioration of AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-Mount.

× Hypochlorous Acid / Chlorine-Based Disinfectants

These have strong aggressiveness (corrosiveness) toward PC material, causing discoloration and deterioration of the case. If they adhere to metal parts such as USB terminals or DC plugs, they can cause rust (corrosion) of metal frames. Do not use chlorine-based Products such as bleach.

× Methyl Alcohol (Methanol)

Although it is also an "alcohol," methyl alcohol (methanol) is highly aggressive toward polycarbonate (PC). It can cause whitening and cracking (chemical cracks) on the case surface, so never use it. Its properties differ from disinfecting ethanol and isopropyl alcohol (IPA), so always check the ingredient label when purchasing.

× Thinner (Acetone, Xylene, Toluene, Benzene, Methyl Ethyl Ketone, etc.), Benzine and Other Organic Solvents, Abrasives

"Thinner" is a general term, and its effect on PC material varies depending on its solvent components. In particular, acetone, xylene, toluene, benzene, and methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) are extremely aggressive toward polycarbonate and can cause dissolution or cracking (chemical cracks) of the case. Organic solvents such as benzine and abrasives may also damage plastic and must never be used. Do not use these agents to remove stains or yellowing.

3. Proper Disinfection Procedure to Prevent Malfunctions (4 Steps)

To extend the life of your AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-Mount, always follow the steps below when cleaning and maintaining it.

Step 1: Unplug the Power

To prevent electric shock and internal short circuits, always unplug the AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-Mount from the wall outlet and disconnect it from connected devices (such as PCs or monitors).

Step 2: Apply Disinfectant to a Cloth

Never spray directly onto the Products. Apply the disinfectant to a soft, lint-free cloth such as microfiber, wring it lightly so it does not drip, and then use it.

Step 3: Gently Wipe the Main Unit

Wipe the entire surface of the case evenly. Be especially careful to prevent liquid from entering connector terminals or gaps in the housing. Clean terminal areas only lightly with a dry cotton swab.

Step 4: Allow to Dry Completely

After disinfection, allow it to air dry thoroughly. Applying power while moisture remains may cause malfunction, so ensure no liquid remains on the surface before reconnecting to power.