UV question

USMA36 · Jan 1, 2020

Currently I am running a 100 gallon total volume system. I just got a 25 watt Aqua ultra violet as part of a larger setup that I’ll soon be upgrading to. I have a few questions. What pump and what flow rate should I run the 25 watt uv with for my current 100 gallon mixed reef system? If I bought a jebao or another dc pump how can I determine what my flow is Unless I am using the pump at 100% capacity? How much good stuff will this uv kill And should this worry me? can I run carbon less often and keep my water just as clear? Lastly, Is it possible to just buy the 57 watt bulb and transformer to upgrade my 25 watt unit when I upgrade to a 220 gallon tank? That would definitely save me some money. As always thank you!

esther · Jan 1, 2020

Watching... Currently thinking of getting UV to add to system prior to setting it up.

Malcontent · Jan 15, 2020

I have both the AquaUV 25 and 57W and they use the same size housing so you can install a 57W bulb and ballast. I had issues with 57W ballasts dying. They're all potted so they probably overheat. I recommend getting the NEMA enclosure version which has much better ventilation and also allows you to swap out the ballast.

Don't worry about low flow rates. Multiple studies have found that UV sterilizer performance is actually better at higher flow rates in recirculating systems.