UV sterilizer expert suggestion - 120g

nzhang1001

nzhang1001

AC Members
Feb 17, 2007
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Queens, NYC
Hi. I am considering adding a UV sterilizer to my 120g (85% filled – see pic) for the long-term fish health, NOT green water issue. So, for killing bacteria & parasites, I think it is logical that the unit does not have to be running all the time, perhaps a couple of days per week. I might be wrong.
http://www.pbase.com/nz1/image/76867902/large
For full-time running, I’ll prefer the hidden inline model, on the return line of a XP3 canister. It should have decent features and quality, and most importantly, not slow down the overall filtration.
If part-time operation makes sense, the submersible models are better fit, and can be used on several tanks.
I have searched on the web quite a bit, and come up with these models:
  • Aqua Medic UVS 18w – inline capable, 200-400GPH flow rate; little technical info on their website.
  • Ultralife Ultra-V VHO UV Sterilizer 16 watt - inline capable, 430gph flow rate.
  • Emperor Aquatics 18 watt In Line Smart Aquarium UV Sterilizer – 365/121gph
  • JBJ Submariner UV Sterilizer/Clarifier 7w – submersible; rated for 75g, no higher output model.
So based on your experience, please input your opinions/suggestions on the models or other alternatives.
Thanks much.:)
 
legendaryfrog said:
I would buy this one: http://www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/Prod_Display.cfm?pcatid=7999&N=2004+113778

I use the 18w on my 150g for 6 hours twice a week. theres no need to keep it on all the time, as the bulbs burn out pretty quickly.

Its also not good to turn them on and off very frequently, as that weakens the output.
Click to expand...
OK, the brand seems to be ESU Coralife. Isn't the newer bulbs suppose to last 8000hr? I wonder if there is an estimate on how frequent on/off affect the output...
Appreciate your input:D
 
Not sure about that.
 
Yup, the description and price look good. Current Gamma UVS, never knew the brand before. How is the build quality and design?
Thanks a lot.
 
Build quality is very soild even good for out door use and the way it works is similar to the turbo twist. The mounting is quite flexable but the unit is about 2 ft long (more UV contact time) so if you think you have the room for it, it should be a very good unit..=) let me know if you wat a picture of it.(best yet it's UL listed)

here is the link for their web site, they make all kind of stuff.....

http://www.current-usa.com/gammauvaquarium.html
 
vhx5438 said:
Build quality is very soild even good for out door use and the way it works is similar to the turbo twist. The mounting is quite flexable but the unit is about 2 ft long (more UV contact time) so if you think you have the room for it, it should be a very good unit..=) let me know if you wat a picture of it.(best yet it's UL listed)

here is the link for their web site, they make all kind of stuff.....

http://www.current-usa.com/gammauvaquarium.html
Click to expand...
Great, Current USA - now rings a bell. may I see pics of your setup? My 120g cabinet has a demention 48X24X24". Another question, the listed flowrate and suggested tank size don't seem to match, for instance, 25w - 2000/1200gph - 125g.
Appreciated the info.
 
here is the lazy version of hang on tank I came up with, it is hook up to my Eheim ecco. but I think you have a lot of room to hide that UV tube.

the 2000gph is only good for bacteria/alge control, 1200gph and slower is needed for parasite control, so it is really depends on what type power head or filter you use, but I wouldn't push the flow rate over 700gph just to be safe because as the lamp gets old the uv output decreases..^_^

uv.jpg
 
Thanks much for the info.:)
 
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