the use of UV Sterilizer

[sAroock]

Ok so i have an 18w lying around and im going to use it again.

Does anyone replaces the UV bulb/tube?

It still turns on, but do the tube wear and tear? a new tube will maximize performance?

 

[jsodwi]

Supposed to be changed every 6 months to a year depending on if you run it constant.

 

[epond83]

Yes they need replaced, I would check with the manufacture for how often. Some companies use T5 lights that last linger.

Any sort of florecent light will continue to put out light for a long time but the output drops aroud 50% or something after a year or so depending on the type.

 

[sAroock]

thanks for the advice. it's Jebo florescent, i'll change it.

 

[Toby_H]

The UVB quality of the light will degrade with every minute it is used... Most companies suggest you replace the bulb every 9~12 months. It is hard to say how often you "need" to as the more 'overkill' factor you originally applied the longer it will be effective.

Personally, I change mine once a year. I've chosen the first week of each year as my marker as this date is very easy for me to remember. I suggest you chose some date that will be equally easy for you to remember.

As mentioned, the bulb will continue to emit light long after the UVB quality is completely burnt out. This often misleads people.

FYI - I firmly recommend a flow rate of 10 gph per 1W of UV strength... and using 1W of UV strength per 10 gal of tank volume...

In other words, push 180 gph of water through your 18W UV and use it to serve up to an 180 gal tank...

 

[PostalPenguin]

If you do get a replacement bulb, get them off Ebay. I got two replacement bulbs for mine for $15 w/ free shipping. Cheapest I could find elsewhere was $25+ without shipping per bulb. Most of them use the G23 base bulbs so if you type G23 UV into Ebay you should get a bunch of hits.