Anecdotal experiences with Green Machine UV

[t5Nitro]

Hey guys, I have the 24W Green Machine UV sterilizer running 24/7 on my tank. I'm wondering when do we know when these things fail? I'm curious if there's a point that I should remove it and add a lifegard or alternate UV plumbed to my system. Other threads have mentioned rust from these green machines as well. I've probably had mine a good 6 months by now.

What should I look for when its time to replace this one with a new unit?

 

[tankstudy]

Hey guys, I have the 24W Green Machine UV sterilizer running 24/7 on my tank. I'm wondering when do we know when these things fail? I'm curious if there's a point that I should remove it and add a lifegard or alternate UV plumbed to my system. Other threads have mentioned rust from these green machines as well. I've probably had mine a good 6 months by now.

What should I look for when its time to replace this one with a new unit?

Usually I can see a feint glow from the water intake when the bulb is working. I've only had to replace 1 bulb on my previous unit which I ran for 3 years.

 

[t5Nitro]

Good deal. Appreciate the insight at least that it may last me a year or more!

 

[Cory]

Most bulbs dont last more than a year. Even if you see blue light it doesnt mean its putting out enough uvc to do anything useful. 1 year its replacement time.