What size UV to save me from Dinoflagellates?

Kaiser · Sep 2, 2020

I've been battling Dinoflagellates for months now and I've had enough. I already tried a blackout and that kept them at bay for 2 weeks but they came back eventually, I've tried increasing nutrients and that hasn't changed a thing, so I've given in and decided to plumb in a UV Sterilizer. I'm looking at the AquaUV Sterilizers and I've noticed that the 25 watt is rated for 150 gallons, which is slightly below my display size (I have a Red Sea 750 XXL which is a 160 gallon display). I would prefer to have either the 57 watt or the 25 watt since they are both 20" long, however I'm not sure I will have enough flow in my current pump (Reef Octopus Varios 8) to run a 57 watt (off my manifold) which has a recommended flow rate of 1066 GPH, nor do i have space to put a second pump in. Ultimately, I have two questions: Is the 25 watt enough for my tank or will I have to go with a 57 watt? If i have to go with the 57 watt, will I have to upgrade my pump to be able to run the 57 watt?

shwareefer · Sep 2, 2020

It's probably a recommended maximum flow rate. Slower water flow would mean more exposure time and therefore more effectiveness.

Kaiser · Sep 3, 2020

shwareefer said:
It's probably a recommended maximum flow rate. Slower water flow would mean more exposure time and therefore more effectiveness.

Ah makes sense, still not sure if i should go with a 25 or a 57 though

gabrieltackitt · Sep 3, 2020

I’d go with the 57, bigger is (almost) always better, plus then you’re ready if you ever go bigger!

fuelman · Sep 3, 2020

You can double check the dino thread but I believe the recommended flow for eradicating Dino's using UV is around 300-400gph, & that's with the pump directly in the display tank not the sump. I would go with the 57watt myself.

hart24601 · Sep 3, 2020

Anytime I have treated dinos they are been very susceptible to UV, with undersized units working very well, however with your display so large I would get the bigger unit with flow on the high side and once you get the dinos in check run it on a timer.