UV sterilizers Good/Bad?

[Scutterborn]

UV sterilizers are not a gimmick. They may not work as well for some folks and then do a great job for others. That just depends on how the system is set up.

UV sterilizers can provide cleaner looking water due to a decrease in free floating algae spores.

UV sterilizers can and will kill some water borne bacteria. However, the amount of bacteria that would be "sterilized" is infinitesimally tiny in regards to your eco balance. Your Nitrosomonas and Nitrobacter colonize on the surface area in the tank. rock, substrate and even the glass (to an extent). these are your two main nitrifying bacterias. They are not affected in any measurable way that I've heard of or read.

So, in summation, Hook up your UV to a low flow pump and enjoy!

-Ben

[alton]

I ran uv's in the late 90's, a good friend showed me with my bosses tank they are not required so for the last 11 years I have not used one. If it works for you go for it, just remember lamps only last 6 months and never look at one, it will fry your eyes.

[krazykrakr2186]

Well, looks like ill give it a whirl. Its a 40W Aqua sterilizer, from what i've read it sounds like a decent one.. any reccomendations as to what size pump to put on the end of it?

[reefreak]

Slower the water movement the cleaner the water is.

[350gt]

Please let us know what your thoughts are....


asfar as pump, might want to google that, they all require different flow rates.

[ErikH]

I love mine! Thanks Jeremy!

[ducati996]

okay steven sent me to this discussion ecause im against uv sterilizer on reef tanks well ive had one in storage for about a year i just hooked it up today ill post results acordingly but so far my water is getting crystal clear ill keep an eye on my pod population

[krazykrakr2186]

Looking forward to seeing your results !