This is a discussion on Can Someone Explain UV Sterilizers? within the Freshwater Aquarium forums, part of the Freshwater Fish and Aquariums category; -->
I know tht uv sterilizers kill algae and parasites in the water but what I am confused about is how do you choose one. ...
I know tht uv sterilizers kill algae and parasites in the water but what I am confused about is how do you choose one. I looked them up and they have different watts and stuff. Also what do I need to put one together. I read something about a power head or canister filter?
I know tht uv sterilizers kill algae and parasites in the water but what I am confused about is how do you choose one. I looked them up and they have different watts and stuff. Also what do I need to put one together. I read something about a power head or canister filter?
Why do you want a UV sterilizer? Do you have an algae problem?
typically they are used in line with some sort of external power filter, such as a canister filter or a sump, you probably can use them with a power head but every one will be different, also each one will tell you what size fittings it comes with so you can match it up to what you are currently running for your filter. Should be no need to worry about watts and all that as the manufacture will design them to work with what ever flow of water the tubes can take.
There are some that are all in one units that you place the whole thing in the tank. They would work well if you wanted to treat the tank say once every month or so but maybe you don't need to run the UV all the time or in a QT scenario they would be great. You can get them pretty cheap. Key is, you don't want high flow going past the light or there won't be enough time for the light to kill anything.
Usually UV sterilizers are only used in marine tanks... UV filters won't replace proper quarantine procedures... Plus you have to replace the $300 bulb every 6 months. Just not worth it to me, unless I have extremely expensive fish...
I had a green algae problem. Bought a 9 watt in tank UV sterilizer called Clarity+. It's expensive, about $100, but it works incredibly well! Within three days my 39 gallon tank was absolutely clear and the fish seem happier than ever. The bulb needs to replaced only once a year. I think it's worth it because it kills parasites and will keep my fish from getting sick and the water from turning into pea soup.
