UV FILTER

Why Do we need a UV Sterlizer in our aquarium ?

A UV sterilizer is a great device used in aquariums to get rid of bacteria, algae, and other nuisances like Ich or other parasites.

It acts as a prophylactic and is a safety aid or an “insurance policy” for your fish tank.

UV sterilizers can be used both in freshwater or marine fish tanks.

It’s a great addition to your tank and prevents the death of fish because of its protective nature.It also makes your water crystal clear so you can enjoy your tank even more.

UV sterilizers are still a debatable subject and most of the knowledge is user-based, but nevertheless, it is very widely used.

What is UV sterilization?

UV sterilizer is a tube of ultra-violet light that kills single cell organisms that go through it by altering and damaging their DNA.

Efficiency of UV Sterilizer

When it comes to efficiency, it is important to match the water flow with the time of exposure on the UV light bulb.

If the water flow is too strong, the exposure is very short and it might not be efficient enough to kill the malicious microorganisms.

Also, if the water flow is too low, the bacteria, algae, and parasites will be killed, but the process will be too slow.

Always be sure to match the water flow power with the UV light bulb power.

It cannot kill beneficial bacteria

Beneficial bacteria are not killed unless some of it flows throughout the water and goes through the UV sterilizer because the beneficial bacteria live on the gravel, rocks, wood, etc.Also, it is recommended to install the UV sterilizer when the aquarium is cycled.

It cannot save fish already sick

If a fish is already affected by illness caused by bacteria or parasites, medications must be used to save the fish because the malicious microorganisms are attached to the fish and are not floating in the water.

In order for the bacteria, algae, or parasites to be killed they have to go through the UV sterilizer.

However, by using the UV sterilizer you can prevent the spreading of the diseases floating freely in the water.

Timing

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.

Note: If you had a GW issue and you successfully overcomed it using an UV Filter, a big water change is ideal to remove the dead algae, and don't forget to find the cause of GW issue.

Courtesy :

Blogs, user experience and tips given by fellow aquarists and our beloved valued customers.