U.V.-Steriliser!

moormist · #1 07/01/2001, 01:04 PM

Hello Fishkeepers.
Can you tell me, what size u.v.- would I need for a tank,48x24x24
and and sump 24x15x12, and do you need to leave it on all the time! any info welcome thank you.

JohnL · #2 07/01/2001, 01:12 PM

What are you trying to accomplish with the UV?

moormist · #3 07/01/2001, 01:25 PM

Nothing ! , I was told that you have got to have one , is it true?
my friend.

tangs_in_pacifica · #4 07/01/2001, 01:53 PM

It Depends..
Wow,

Was this your LFS that gave you this advice? If so, I'm sure they had quite a few on the shelf

A UV filter is a good piece of equipment to have, especially if you're going to have a lot of fish. UVs are great for controlling the spread of parasites. However, UVs will also sometimes kill/damage beneficial small critters along with the bad ones. you should probably do a bit of research on this topic, before you rush out and buy one... of course, if you have the money, it's not a bad thing to have.

Personally, I've got two UVs just in case. I'll attach one to my systems for a bit, after I introduce any new fish. I notice, when I add one, my water seems to be a bit clearer. I also notice that prolonged use seems to cut down on the diversity of micro inhabitants in my reefs. I suspect that the water is clearer because I don't have as many microscopic critters in the water column with a UV.

So, to answer your questions...

1. You don't have to use one
2. They're great pieces of equipment to own
3. You probably NEED about a 15W, but you may want to go BIG... (i.e. a 25W UV only costs a bit more than an 8W and is much more effective). This size will probably be overkill in your tanks, but you may be happier in the long run. You should, however, look at the flow rate. At a low rate (i.e. a tiny powerhead), an 8W may be just as effective as a 25W. At a high flow rate (i.e. RIO 2500), an 8W will be almost useless.

moormist · #5 07/01/2001, 05:07 PM

Thank you my friend for your advice you have been very helpful and right to the point , this is the sort of help that I need on a board like this no smart mouths ,just good info , thank you again . if you have any more advice that you think could help me on my way it would be most welcome . Alan uk.

Ritteri&Bubbles · #6 07/01/2001, 05:13 PM

I have found UV's to be a complete waste of time and money, even on fish only setups, these UV's may be able to kill some bacteria, but will kill both good and bad, and only the bacteria that passes through the UV, but all the bacteria both good and bad in the main tank will still be alive and kicking. Do yourself a favor and get rid of the notion.

moormist · #7 07/01/2001, 05:24 PM

Thank you my friend, I am thankful for all the info I can get as I do not have any mate's in this hobby and I look too you guy's for my help, when I do get it up and running I will get some photos on here to show you all ,all the best from England.

JohnL · #8 07/01/2001, 06:10 PM

Lot's of good info can be found here using the Search Function at the top right corner of each page.

Martyn · #9 07/01/2001, 06:22 PM

Hi Moormist.
An interesting thread below you may like to read.

http://archive.reefcentral.com/vbull...=UV+Steriliser

Martyn

moormist · #10 07/02/2001, 01:26 AM

Thank you John mate.

Quote:

Originally posted by JohnL
Lot's of good info can be found here using the Search Function at the top right corner of each page.

moormist · #11 07/02/2001, 02:01 AM

Hello, and thank you guy's for the info i will read it with great Care
All the best for know,A.J.