Using a UV Sterilizer...Good or bad for reef tank..

[Budman's Corals]

Is it ok to use a UV sterilizer in a fish/reef tank..anyone?

 

[o2manyfish]

I've read many threads with this issue debated over the years. I have noticed that those that discourage the use base it on theory rather than actual use.

I personally have been running a large double chamber UV with a slow flow rate on my system for over 6 years. I maintain a pod population that feed 3 obese mandarins, 2 dragon pipes, and an assortment of dwarf angels.

I think it is a great preventative tool.

I also know from first hand experience that the major wholesalers around Los Angeles all use massive banks of UV on both their fish and coral systems. Granted those systems are for short term livestock holding, but I think if you are trying to prevent bad things from happening it's a low cost safety measure.

Dave B

 

[Budman's Corals]

I've read many threads with this issue debated over the years. I have noticed that those that discourage the use base it on theory rather than actual use.

I personally have been running a large double chamber UV with a slow flow rate on my system for over 6 years. I maintain a pod population that feed 3 obese mandarins, 2 dragon pipes, and an assortment of dwarf angels.

I think it is a great preventative tool.

I also know from first hand experience that the major wholesalers around Los Angeles all use massive banks of UV on both their fish and coral systems. Granted those systems are for short term livestock holding, but I think if you are trying to prevent bad things from happening it's a low cost safety measure.

Dave B

Very well said ...love the 3 obese mandarins saying too..

Thanks for the input..

 

[Swine]

I've read many threads with this issue debated over the years. I have noticed that those that discourage the use base it on theory rather than actual use.

I personally have been running a large double chamber UV with a slow flow rate on my system for over 6 years. I maintain a pod population that feed 3 obese mandarins, 2 dragon pipes, and an assortment of dwarf angels.

I think it is a great preventative tool.

I also know from first hand experience that the major wholesalers around Los Angeles all use massive banks of UV on both their fish and coral systems. Granted those systems are for short term livestock holding, but I think if you are trying to prevent bad things from happening it's a low cost safety measure.

Dave B

I'm guessing its not possible to run the UV inline with the system because of the low flow? This is the next big dry good I want to purchase and I'm trying to get a good one for a 55gallon but will let me upgrade to a 125. Maybe I could run it inline with BRS reactors. Just trying to cut down on the number of hoses coming to and from my sump, its getting crazy.

Back on topic:
Everyone I've talked to has said to get one. But keep in mind that it is a preventative measure. It will not eliminate the possibility of disease or "bad bacteria"(still figuring out what bad bacteria is exactly).

 

[Budman's Corals]

Thats what im going to do splice it in b4 the dual reactor or come off the main return pump since its valve is closed alot already , 1 pump = less electric bill..

 

[Swine]

Nice. My only concern is if i need to run a sponge filter before. Sometimes bits of macro algae or detritus make it into my reactor. I figure that would mess with the uv. As long as i rinse my gfo really well i might put it after my reactor

Sent from my SCH-I510 using Xparent ICS Tapatalk 2

 

[o2manyfish]

The water flows through the UV, so bits of detritus or algae are not a big deal. There is nothing for the detritus to get trapped by.

The maintenance of the UV is keeping the UV quartz tube clear. Since the UV produces heat, the quartz shield around the bulb collects calcium buildup.

So make sure you plumb your UV to be able to remove the quartz tube for a vinegar soak every 3-6 months.


Dave B

 

[Swine]

The water flows through the UV, so bits of detritus or algae are not a big deal. There is nothing for the detritus to get trapped by.

The maintenance of the UV is keeping the UV quartz tube clear. Since the UV produces heat, the quartz shield around the bulb collects calcium buildup.

So make sure you plumb your UV to be able to remove the quartz tube for a vinegar soak every 3-6 months.


Dave B

Thanks for clarifying how it works. I was thinking more so that the particles would prevent the UV from being able to do its job. But I guess I wont have too much detritus floating around 24/7. Just after water changes really.


I don't think I'm thread jacking too much since it contributes to the OPs question. Since you guys seem knowledgeable on UV filters, any suggestions/preferences?

 

[Ron Reefman]

I've read many threads with this issue debated over the years. I have noticed that those that discourage the use base it on theory rather than actual use.
I personally have been running a large double chamber UV with a slow flow rate on my system for over 6 years. I maintain a pod population that feed 3 obese mandarins, 2 dragon pipes, and an assortment of dwarf angels.
I think it is a great preventative tool.
I also know from first hand experience that the major wholesalers around Los Angeles all use massive banks of UV on both their fish and coral systems. Granted those systems are for short term livestock holding, but I think if you are trying to prevent bad things from happening it's a low cost safety measure.

Dave B

The LFS and wholesalers use UV because they new fish, very high potential sick new fish, being shipped in regularly. They have a seious interest in trying to stop anything from living in the water other than fish, corals and inverts. You shouldn't have those kinds of concerns... well, it's unlikely you move livestock in and out that much. I'd be real curious to see what percentage of serious reefers use UV. My personal opinion is UV was popular 5-10 years ago and isn't nearly as common today. My guess is less than 20% of reefers use them any more. Just my guess though.

 

[NanaReefer]

The LFS and wholesalers use UV because they new fish, very high potential sick new fish, being shipped in regularly. They have a seious interest in trying to stop anything from living in the water other than fish, corals and inverts. You shouldn't have those kinds of concerns... well, it's unlikely you move livestock in and out that much. I'd be real curious to see what percentage of serious reefers use UV. My personal opinion is UV was popular 5-10 years ago and isn't nearly as common today. My guess is less than 20% of reefers use them any more. Just my guess though.

NOT all LFS nor all wholesalers use them Your guess is a good one though!

 

[jdpiii3]

Great article for anyone thinking about reef tank sterilization.
Ozone vs. Ultraviolet: Comparing Two Common Sterilization Techniques

Ozone vs. Ultraviolet: Comparing Two Common Sterilization Techniques (Full Article) | Saltwater & Reef | Feature Articles | TFH Magazine®

 

[Budman's Corals]

Great article for anyone thinking about reef tank sterilization.
Ozone vs. Ultraviolet: Comparing Two Common Sterilization Techniques

Ozone vs. Ultraviolet: Comparing Two Common Sterilization Techniques (Full Article) | Saltwater & Reef | Feature Articles | TFH Magazine®

Yes that was a great article

Im going to go without a UV .

Thanks for all the input..

 

[Swine]

Yes that was a great article

Im going to go without a UV .

Thanks for all the input..

Are you going to use ozone?