How to Choose an Aquarium UV Sterilizer

Aquarium UV sterilizers are designed to kill off free-floating microorganisms in your tank. They work by exposing your fish, plants and corals to high-intensity UV light.

They are commonly used in both freshwater and saltwater setups to help prevent cloudy water, algae and parasites from forming. They also can be beneficial for keeping your pond healthy and clear of foul odors.

The best aquarium uv sterilizer for you will depend on your budget, the type of bacteria and algae problem you are facing, and the strength of the lamp that is installed in it. A higher wattage bulb will be more powerful at killing certain types of bacteria and algae. It is important to replace these lamps every six to twelve months to keep them effective and to minimize the risk of overdosing on your fish.

Flow Rates

The length of time that water will be exposed to the UV light or dwell time, is highly dependent on the flow rates of the device. This is because the longer the water stays in the device, the greater the chance that the organisms will be killed by the ultraviolet light. This can be achieved by ensuring that the device is sized appropriately and that the flow rates are low enough to ensure a long contact time.

Secondly, the clarity of the water that is pumped through it, as well as the salinity, affects how much of the UV light will be able to penetrate it. Therefore, it is recommended that the UV sterilizer is positioned after your biological and mechanical filters in your aquarium so that the water has a very low turbidity before it makes its way to the unit.

Thirdly, the cleanliness of the lamp or its quartz sleeve is another important factor that can impact on how effective it is at penetrating your tank water. If the lamp or sleeve is covered with dust, dirt, film or minerals, it will block the UV light. This can significantly reduce the effectiveness of the UV light and may even make it ineffective.

It is also very important to make sure that you are not using the lamp or sleeve with any medication, as some medications and other treatments will render the germicidal properties of the UV light inactive. Always read the instructions carefully before adding any new medication or treatment to your tank.

Algae

Algae is often caused by an excess of nutrients being present in the water. While a UV sterilizer will not necessarily kill off these nutrient levels, it will prevent them from multiplying and spreading, helping to keep your tank looking good and your animals healthy.

The best way to control algae is by performing regular water changes. Ideally, you should be performing a water change at least once a week to remove the dead algae that is no longer visible in your tank. You can then replace the water in your tank with clean, freshwater to keep your fish happy and healthy.