UV Sterilizer without Guard/Shield

[Reef GE]

I bought an existing reef tank that had a uv sterilizer included. The UVS doesn’t have a guard — it was bought overseas and is just a lightbulb that hangs in the sump. From what I understand exposed uv light is dangerous for eyes and skin, so I dont Look at it obviously, but wonder how effective it is In my tank.

Are such sterilizers actually helping? Do I need an expensive alternative? How effective if at all is this option:

It’s similar to this item on Amazon

 

[Dinodanger]

I bought an existing reef tank that had a uv sterilizer included. The UVS doesn’t have a guard — it was bought overseas and is just a lightbulb that hangs in the sump. From what I understand exposed uv light is dangerous for eyes and skin, so I dont Look at it obviously, but wonder how effective it is In my tank.

Are such sterilizers actually helping? Do I need an expensive alternative? How effective if at all is this option:

It’s similar to this item on Amazon

I would imagine it would act more like clarifier to get the full benefits of uv you need to be able to adjust contact time (flow)

 

[CindyKz]

I don't know anything about that sterilizer so I can't comment on that. But to answer your question "do I need an expensive alternative"? - no. Lots of successful reefs don't use a sterilizer. Just take it out if you don't like it/want it.