UV Sterilizers

Hi Guys,

I was wondering how many on here use a UV sterilizer. I have read some reviews that say that are great and others that say they don't make much of a difference. If you use one, what brand would you recommend. What are the plus' and minus'? I have a 55 gallon and am looking into them. I would need one that isn't super big and easy to install. Thanks!!!!

 

I picked up the small one they carry at Petsmart. I turn it on if I have any kind of algae outbreak and it does seem to help. I don't believe it's something you need to have on all the time. They kill off good things as well as bad. The Petsmart one is about as easy to install as a power head and doesn't tank up much space.

 

The good is that they can kill parasites in the water as well as algae spores, the bad is that you need larger rated one to make any significant difference and they kill good things such as bacteria, phytoplankton etc. I don't feel that do much, but others will swear by them. There is already enough equipment that you need, why bother with something that may not even to much.

 

Thanks guys!!!

 

I bought a Turbo Twist so I could show off the little light on the end. Seriously. I bought it to help battle hair algae. I have since won the battle and I am algae free. Was it due to the UV? I couldnt tell you one way or another. I had a couple of fish with ich. They since died, and I have not seen ich since. UV?? dont know either. Does it kill too much good bacteria? I dont have a bacteria test kit, so I dont know!!!! Mine is still running 24/7, has been for about 4 mo. I can't prove anything good or bad with the UV. All i can say is my tank is doing better than it has in a long time, but I do alot of other things, such as GFO and Carbon. As long as it keeps going well, I will not change anything. Do what works for YOU. If it kills too much good stuff, I surely havn't noticed it.

 

I'm a skeptic. Nuf said.

 

I wish there were a little more solid research on this issue. I still like mine, but as stated above, not sure just how much they contribute. Many contradicting articles.

 

UV sterilizers are only useful if you have bad algae issues, a parasite infestation, bacteria issue (white/milky water). If you don't have any of these issues you don't need it. It will only work if there is something to control.

I purchased one a few months ago due to a bad bacteria outbreak and haven't turned it off since. I use it as a preventative measure now, but really isn't necessary.