UV sterilizers

[fluffer]

Hi all! I was thinking of getting a uv filter for my tank. I noticed that the optimum temp for the filter is 100 degrees. Would I need a chiller, which costs more than the filter itself? Is a uv filter necessary?

Cheers!

[gbolton]

Im not an expert on UV sterilizer but unless the water is remaining in contact with this area that is 100 degrees for a long period you shouldn't get to much of a delta in your overall tank temperature. It really just depens on surface area exposed and time of exposure for the water.

[OrionGirl]

Why do you want a UV sterilizer? If this for a quarantine tank, or for your main setup?

[Max]

I'm not sure why you'd want one but.. if the water doesn't have a pretty good exposure time to the water it won't work really well. They do kill some bacteria and MAYBE a few parasites,"if your exposure time is high enough." I've found that good husbandry should remove your need for a u.v steralizer also if you have lots of fine filter feeders it's probably not a good idea ,"IMO". For fish it will help some maybe but, you could probably spend your money to more affect on more water movement light etc.. Most of the time if your system is in balance you really won't need the UV. However if you do decide to go that route you very well might need a chiller I don't know your tank specs. Just remember the longer the exposure time the better. the way uv works is that the radiation causes "to keep it simple" DNA/RNA to unravel and fall apart. Imagine the ultimate sun burn.
hope this helps
Chris

[fluffer]

Thanks, guess I don't need one. I was planning a 55 gal.