UV sterilizer to help control ich

[gusmanda]

anyone have any recomendations for uv sterilizer models to use to help reduce ich? To be used ina quarantine tank. Or do all models more or less do the same job relative to flow?

 

[JustinM]

All models more or less can reduce the numbers but the trick is to be able to produce the correct uw/cm2 with a proper flow. How big is your tank?


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[Jdub968]

Agree with Justinm keep in mind the cheap models I would avoid as a parasite preventative imo I believe these less expensive models are better suited to help with algea/ green water.

 

[gusmanda]

The tank is roughly 150 gallons. So bottom line is to get one with slow flow relative to watts in order to maximize parasite exposure to uv then?

 

[shaginwagon13]

Tagging along to this.... I am interested as well.

 

[JustinM]

The tank is roughly 150 gallons. So bottom line is to get one with slow flow relative to watts in order to maximize parasite exposure to uv then?

You can always dial the flow back. I would get one that can have the max gph and produce the 700,000 uw/cm2(don't quote me on that number) needed to kill parasites. You would need a massive UV to put a small dent in killing off ich via UV. Get the best one you can afford.

 

[Dmorty217]

The tank is roughly 150 gallons. So bottom line is to get one with slow flow relative to watts in order to maximize parasite exposure to uv then?

Its about dwell time and watts to gallon ratio. Basically you want 3-5 watts per gallon to actually kill the swimming stage of ich, more watts the better. Be warned it can raise temps in the tank though with a properly sized UV

 

[Jdub968]

+1 with Justinm and dmorty good info on the temp raise

 

[JustinM]

Just remember, the theronts are only swimming for about 24-48 hours. It is very useful for multiple tanks and one sump but will not help much for even control of ich. I use UV on my DT, but it’s more or less to help keep the water clear.

 

[Dmorty217]

Just remember, the theronts are only swimming for about 24-48 hours. It is very useful for multiple tanks and one sump but will not help much for even control of ich. I use UV on my DT, but it's more or less to help keep the water clear.

+1 having a UV hooked up to the DT and not going through a sump is most beneficial unless there are multiple tanks hooked up to one sump like you see in most fish stores. Water clarity is the biggest benefit to a UV, although it can help with disease too

 

[gusmanda]

Thanks for alll the inputs!!!