What is the difference between UV light and UV sterilizer?
UV light is a shorter wavelength than visible light, and is able to penetrate and destroy the bodies of viruses and bacteria. The use of UV sterilization, or ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, has been found to be extremely effective.
How long should you run a UV sterilizer?
An aquarium UV steriliser should be switched on and running for 24 hours per day, every day. Exceptions would be setting the tank up before there are any fish in it, adding beneficial bacteria to the water, as UV light kills bacteria, or if you are using a medication that stipulates that UVs should be turned off.
Is a UV sterilizer worth it?
If set up appropriately, the UV sterilizer will kill the pests you want gone. It will also not kill beneficial bacteria unless they flow through the water. You will not need to worry about your fish either—they may be stressed with the device at first but will grow used to it.
How do I choose a UV sterilizer?
The greater the UV power per unit of water, the better the sterilization effect; the greater the flow rate of the water through the UV lamp sterilizer, the greater the total sterilization effect; the greater the UV254 transmittance, the better the sterilization effect.
How do you know if UV light is working?
For most residential UV lamps, the elapsed time is about 9000 hours, or one year of continuous use. After this time, you may very well still see the blue glow. Again, that’s more a sign that the lamp is still getting power and not an indication that your water is fully inactivated.
How long do UV sterilizer bulbs last?
5,000 to 9,000 hours
The germicidal UV-C lamps have a useful average life of 5,000 to 9,000 hours. Useful life means that during this time the lamp is operating at an optimal output level for neutralizing mold, fungus, bacteria and viruses. Inherently, fluorescent technologies like UV germicidal lights depreciate in output over time.
How do you maintain a UV sterilizer?
UV Technical Help and Tips to Maintain a UV Water Filter System
- Replace Your UV Lamp Annually.
- Clean Your UV Quartz Sleeve Annually (and replace sleeve every 2 years)
- Change Pre-filters or UV System Integrated Filters.
- Monitor Water Supply and UV System Performance.
- Monitor UV Light Dosage (Make Sure UV Lamp is Working!)
Can UV filter hurt fish?
UV sterilizers are safe for fish, corals, and invertebrates. In the beginning, it may stress the fish a bit, but that is not a very common thing. When installing this equipment, make sure you follow the manual and if you have questions or difficulties contact the company.
What size UV light do I need?
Choose Between a Clarifier or Sterilizer As a rule of thumb, use 10W of UV light per 1000 gallons for ‘clarification’, and 30 watts of UV light per 1000 gallons for ‘sterilization’.