Uv question? more watts or more watts?

[SCReef'n]

So my question is 100 watt uv sterilizer the same as 2x 50 watt units? Should I upgrade or just add another unit?

 

[vetteguy53081]

So my question is 100 watt uv sterilizer the same as 2x 50 watt units? Should I upgrade or just add another unit?

In essense no. You want one 100wt to offer 100watts. With two 50 watt units, theyre still 50 watts, just two units.

 

[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

So my question is 100 watt uv sterilizer the same as 2x 50 watt units? Should I upgrade or just add another unit?

That's a REALLY good question! The crux of the issue is if the twin 50w are run in series or in parallel? In series, and if they are from the same manufacturer, then they would be equivalent to a 100w single bulb unit. Running them in parallel would give you greater flow throughput, but only half the kill rate. Then the question is: is it equal to kill half the animals twice as fast?(grin).

Jay

 

[archercorals]

Good question

 

[SCReef'n]

I want to fight an ick outbreak.my current 40watt pentair unit is keeping the status quo but not making much progress with my current 220 gallon setup

 

[SCReef'n]

So I could run my 40 watt and a 50 in series and get 90 watts effectively? Think that could help?

 

[Jay Hemdal Verified Community Expert]

So I could run my 40 watt and a 50 in series and get 90 watts effectively? Think that could help?

I think for controlling marine ich, you need the highest dose possible, not the fastest throughput. If that’s true, then running them in series would work better than running them in parallel or as two different side streams.
Jay

 

[SCReef'n]

Ok so here’s the deal….. given my current budget. upgrade to https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/120-watt-pro-max-high-output-uv-sterilizer-lifegard-aquatics.html
And sell the existing 40w pentair unit or purchase another 40/50 w pentair to run in series and save 350-400$ Thoughts?