UV connecting to Fx5 filter

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
The Masked Shadow said:
Has anyone used these? I assume they are like pond UVs. I’m looking in to getting one.
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Yup, I run a UV Sterlizer off my FX-6. Most people shoot for Level One Sterilization. Each UV sterilizer has a minimal dwell time to be effective. The faster the flow rate, the more wattage you will need.

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I run a 40W UV sterilizer on the return end of my FX-6 which replaced the old FX-5. Basically, the faster the flow rate, the more wattage you will need for effective UV sterilization. The redox potential resulting from UV sterilizers boosts fish immune systems. I wouldn't run a tank without a UV sterilizer. I used to keep tons of medications, and could recite what med to use for what condition. I no longer keep any medications. My fish heal from injuries, even gruesome ones like a cut off lower lip.

My big tank set up which has been years in the progress will have two 120W UV sterilizers running on the return ends of two Ultima II 4,000s powered by Reeflo Barracuda Gold pumps. I used the chart to determine the wattage needed for the Reeflo pumps.
 
pacu mom pacu mom , do you have details or pics how you hooked up your UV unit to the FX filter, I'm sure The Masked Shadow The Masked Shadow is going to need them?
 
My UV sterilizer looks like this. Connected the return hose from the FX-5 to the bigger (intake) port of the UV sterilizer. The return hose to the tank is connected to the smaller port of the UV sterilizer.

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Left hose is from the FX-6, right hose returns the water to the tank.
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Here's a definitive article on UV sterilizers.
www.americanaquariumproducts.com

UVC Sterilization | How Aquarium & Pond UV Sterilizers Work

Information how a TRUE Aquarium, Pond UV Sterilizer/clarifier work. Category A, B, & C Sterilizers. Affect on green water, disease prevention, & Redox
www.americanaquariumproducts.com

The upshot is the faster the flow rate, the more wattage you will need to achieve Level One sterilization. I suspect with the flow rates of FX-5 and FX-6s, you will need 36 - 40 Watts. That is probably a disadvantage when using an FX-5 or 6. A pump or filter with a slower flow rate would require less wattage to accomplish the same goal.
 
I custom plumbed a 36W Coralife unit under my tank to do a UV with an FX-6. The one thing I wanted was to be able to remove the UV so I got special Unions to be able to change water flow and disconnect the unit. This is what my set up looks like:
81AA10C4-01C0-4593-933D-6CC0F8418CE9.jpeg
 
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Forgot to mention, the 36w is perfect for my 300 for its intended purpose... to keep down on green water. For some reason, maybe incoming light from windows or something, this tank will get the green tinge in the water. The UV has been a huge help and I never have green water anymore.
 
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