Thanks anyway. I have found sources that suggest I should perhaps, maybe, see something, perhaps purple or yellow, if I examine the thing in the dark and it is functioning.

albert

There is an easy way to check. Just hold a compact fluorescent or any other fluorescent lamp next to the UV bulb when it is on. The UV radiation(usually 185nm and/or 265nm) should stimulate the phosphors in the second bulb to fluoresce. The glow ought to be quite noticable.

You might even save a worn out CFL just for the purpose of checking the UV lamp.

Try NOT looking directly at the lamp. The UV will damage your eyes.

Zink

If a germicidal uv-c bulb is working, there should be a purple light visible. However, you should never look directly at the light or expose skin directly. I usuall put a piece of paper in front when checking. All germicidal uv-c lamps lose their effectiveness over time, even if they are still lit, which is why most uv device manufacturers recommend annual replacement. Something else worth noting, is that some uv device manufacturers install a micro switch as a safety precaution.

Here is a link that might be useful: 9 watt uv bulb