UV Sterilizer.........which pump??

[tarquin375]

I was wondering if I could see some opinions on what pump would work well for a 9w UV sterilizer on a 55g. Something under $20 would be great but a few $$$ more would be alright as well.

I currently have this sterilizer in the out-flow line of an XP3, does this interfere with the flow rate?

It is an AquaMedic Helix Max

Thanks everyone

[jimmy mc]

I use a Maxi-Jet 1200 with a 25 watt UV sterilizer. Been running it for over a year and it seems to do a good job. Don't have to reduce the flow of my canister as I would if the UV was online.

[tarquin375]

Ah-ha.......I figured it was reducing the flow.......

[tarquin375]

Anyone else have any advice??

[DrNo]

Only that the maxijet (that I've also used) is a great little pump. Only downside is that in-tank it will add heat to the water and increase the temp a little.

[tarquin375]

Thanks, I'll check the net for some good deals on a maxijet then...........anybody know of any others?
:

[jrvs23]

I use a Rio 1700 to operate my 9W Aqua UV w/ a attached sponge filter. It gives me flow control and a little added filtering. The only thing I don't like is its a little bulky in the corner of my tank.

[tarquin375]

I've seen the Rio brand around.........I'll check them out as well, thanks!

[jimmy mc]

While we are talking about UV sterilizer I would like to ask how often users are changing their bulbs?

[69steveo69]

What is the purpose for the UV sterilizer and is that for freshwater or salt???

[jrvs23]

I replace my bulb once a year. It could probably be done at 8 months but I stretch it as long as I'm not adding new fish or having any other algae issues.

[whitlock8870]

69steveo69,

UV or ultraviolet sterilizers kill free floating algea and other organisms that may cloud the water. They can be used in salt or freshwater setups, some people think you shouldn't use them on reef tanks.

[tarquin375]

Do they kill BB or interfere with cycling?