How should I run my UV's?

143MPCo · Dec 21, 2015

Good evening R2R!!!

Need some direction, I have an idea of what I want but would like some opposing and/or corroborating opinions...

Looking to add two UV's, one for Algae control and one for Protozoa control, I know both require distinct flow rates but and this is the kicker - I want to run them off one pump. Please read on before you say that wont work

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The Plan (still open to modifications):

One pump connected to a multi port PVC manifold, the manifold will have three spear gate-valves, two to independently control the UV's flow-rate and the third to act as a dam and create enough back-pressure to keep the flow at the desired levels in the other two.

The concern:

Will this work?
What if any drawback do you see?
Wiper or no wiper (the UV's wiper seal will sit over the sump for drips, if any)?
Should the UV's be the same wattage (I feel the answer is "no" but would like confirmation)?
Did I miss anything?

...also would like size recommendation for 390-gallons.

143MPCo · Dec 21, 2015

143MPCo said:
...also would like size recommendation for 390-gallons.

divided by two

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143MPCo · Dec 21, 2015

This is what I found thus-far..

References:
http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=16+2148&aid=2855

143MPCo · Dec 22, 2015

anyone?

143MPCo · Dec 22, 2015

Bump, come on guys what do you think?

twilliard · Dec 22, 2015

Hi!
@brandon429 has good input on UV
I feel that would work as you are able to control the flow for specific reasons.

Waters · Dec 23, 2015

Yes, that would work just as you have it described. One pump with the ability to decrease GPH to each unit using some type of valve would work fine. They don't have to be the same wattage as long as you pay attention to the GPH moving through each unit. The effeciency of UV lights depend on the size/wattage, the length of time the water is in contact with the UV, and the clarity of the water. As far as size recommendations...go as large as you can afford. The bigger the actual unit, the longer the water is in contact with the light which allows you to speed up or slow down the GPH as needed.