UV Sterilizer?

[rench]

So I have read all these pots tring to find an answer to my question but no clear answers. So I am posting it... I am thinking of get one to just stop the algea blooms and keep my water clear, Is that what i should expect or what?

 

[viggen]

Yes, a UV will help keep the water from turning yellow/green & slow down the amount of algae that grows everywhere. However it must be sized properly with the proper amount of flow. Going with to small of a UV will not do a thing except cost you money.

Another option people like is Ozone.....

 

[zigzag1]

Nutrient control is the very best way to keep algae in check. Carbon easily removes yellowing and alleleopathic compounds. Never seen any real need for a UV sterilizer in a reef, unless you just want to spend the money.

 

[viggen]

carbon costs how much & lasts how long?

UV costs how much? Replacement bulb every year or so costs ??

True though.... UV isn't for everyone.

 

[fishgate]

UV will stop your algea blooms cold. It keeps the water sparkling clear. I have a 15 watt on a 120g and the bulb costs $50 and lasts around a year. I have it on a 12 hour cycle with a timer. Get a slow, under 200gph pump for it. If your tank is cloudy with algea or bacteria and you put this on at 9:00pm, by the next morning, the tank will be crystal clear. It is that effective.

I have this one. I like it because it can hang on the tank or be totally isolated with in and out hoses (it comes with the external stand). I use it with a 160gph pump which you need to buy seperately. I did have a ballast failure but they actually sent me two under warranty. A used one and a new one. It comes with a bag of fittings for various configurations.

http://www.marineandreef.com/Lifegard_Aquastep_Pro_15_Watt_UV_Sterilizer_p/rrl31132.htm

 

[Steved13]

Yes, that is what a UV does best. Algae is easy for a UV to eliminate. I saw the same results as Fishgate, the next day the tank looked like there was no water in it.

You need to make sure it's large enough for your system, and that would also dictate pump size. I use this one http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/store/50-watt-330-gallon-emperor-aquatics-smart-ho-uv-high-output.html But I also wanted parasite control, which takes a higher dosage than algae.