Thoughts on a UV sterilizer in sump

[Chris H Reef]

Hey all,

I’ve been running my tank for about 4.5 months. My water is a slight but hazy and I wanna see what everyone’s thoughts are on putting a uv sterilizer in the sump. I have a spare one from a freshwater tank I use to use. Are there downsides to using one?

I have a skimmer but not other filtration. Should I maybe look into filtration too?

 

[Spare time]

I would add some mechanical filtration and bituminous or rox carbon. Any cheap UV will handle a bacterial bloom. Just make sure its not just an exposed bulb

 

[shakacuz]

what size tank? UV may not be necessary

 

[Chris H Reef]

what size tank? UV may not be necessary

75 gallon display with a 20 gallon sump

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

I never wanted to have a UV, but if the water is perpetually hazy with bacteria for some reason, it can be a fine plan.

 

[SPS2020]

I never wanted to have a UV, but if the water is perpetually hazy with bacteria for some reason, it can be a fine plan.

Hi Randy,

Care to elaborate...or link to one of your fine articles if you have already discussed.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

Hi Randy,

Care to elaborate...or link to one of your fine articles if you have already discussed.

My simplistic thought was that I added organic carbon (vinegar) so the bacteria could feed filter feeders. But there’s no point to grow them and then kill them again in a UV.