UV sterilizer for 120g

[nzhang1001]

Hi. New member needs some help from UVS experts

http://www.pbase.com/nz1/image/76867902/large
I am considering adding a UV sterilizer to my 120g (85% filled – see pic) for the long-term fish health, NOT green water issue. So, for killing bacteria & parasites, I think it is logical that the unit does not have to be running all the time, perhaps a couple of days per week. I might be wrong.
For full-time running, I’ll prefer the hidden inline model, on the return line of a XP3 canister. It should have decent features and quality, and most importantly, not slow down the overall filtration.
If part-time operation makes sense, the submersible models are better fit, and can be used on several tanks.
I have searched on the web quite a bit, and come up with these models:

• Aqua Medic UVS 18w – inline capable, 200-400GPH flow rate; little technical info on their website.
• Ultralife Ultra-V VHO UV Sterilizer 16 watt - inline capable, 430gph flow rate.
• Emperor Aquatics 18 watt In Line Smart Aquarium UV Sterilizer – 365/121gph
• JBJ Submariner UV Sterilizer/Clarifier 7w – submersible; rated for 75g, no higher output model.

So based on your experience, please input your opinions/suggestions on the models or other alternatives.
Thanks much.

 

[Scorponok]

First of all, you have a very nice tank. Here are my suggestions. 1. Let it run all the time. If you only let it run a couple of days per week, only two days no bateria and 5 days of bateria. They grow back very fast. Then there is no point for UV 2. You can do the XP3 add on, although it will slow down the filteration but not by much. I would not worry. But if slowing down is a big concern to you, get a pump just for it and do it separately. 3. Of all the models you listed, I would get a 18W.

 

[Dr Joe]

First off... .

Go with the Aqua Medic and leave it on all the time and if you have some smaller tanks that need occasional treatment go with one with a built-in pump like http://www.petsmart.com/global/search/search_results.jsp 9 watt, just be carefull you don't transfer deseases too.

Dr Joe

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[nzhang1001]

Thank you, guys

I'll like to discuss a little bit about part-time operation, as I have heard some people do that...
My goal is to use it as a preventive measure, and be able to get rid of harmful parasites/bacteria once fishes show sign, as I enjoy watching them carefully everyday. For the rest of time their immune system should exercise. Also, what will occasional treatment do if permanent operation should be the only way?

Oh, I checked out the internal one on Petsmart which is only $30 for the 9w version - Internal UV Sterilizer with Power Head and UV Sterilizer Lamp Replacements.

 

[tonymofo]

18w of UV will be enough. I would let it run most of the time. maybe shut it down 1 or 2 days week. After I installed on my 150 the water has been crystal clear ( like my arowana was flying in mid air) with 15% W/C every 2-3 days.

 

[Dr Joe]

Thank you, guys

I'll like to discuss a little bit about part-time operation, as I have heard some people do that...
My goal is to use it as a preventive measure, and be able to get rid of harmful parasites/bacteria once fishes show sign, as I enjoy watching them carefully everyday. For the rest of time their immune system should exercise. Also, what will occasional treatment do if permanent operation should be the only way?

Oh, I checked out the internal one on Petsmart which is only $30 for the 9w version - Internal UV Sterilizer with Power Head and UV Sterilizer Lamp Replacements.

First, remember that all the water never passes thru the UV, it just keeps getting diluted with sterilyzed water. If you have any dead spots in the tank they will harbor parasites & bacteria.

Infesting or infecting the fish to strengthen their ammune system isn't a good idea. It stresses the fish and causes the immune system to weaken further.

If permanent treatment is necessary, there is no substitute.

If you are worried about the cost of replacement bulbs and are trying to cut down on useage for that reason, cut back a fwe hours a day not a few days a week, this will lessen the chance of bad things getting a foothold in the tank.

Dr Joe

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[nzhang1001]

18w of UV will be enough...

Thank you

First, remember that all the water never passes thru the UV, it just keeps getting diluted with sterilyzed water. If you have any dead spots in the tank they will harbor parasites & bacteria.
Infesting or infecting the fish to strengthen their ammune system isn't a good idea. It stresses the fish and causes the immune system to weaken further.
If permanent treatment is necessary, there is no substitute.
If you are worried about the cost of replacement bulbs and are trying to cut down on useage for that reason, cut back a fwe hours a day not a few days a week, this will lessen the chance of bad things getting a foothold in the tank.
Dr Joe
.

Good explanation, Dr Joe.
It's been over 4 months since the tank setup. For the first 2-3 months I added new fishes from time to time but some died within first few days (I relied on careful observation and accommodation, no quarantine tank) I believe there are some parasite/bacteria in there, since some of my fish would occasionally flash against wood/plant. But so far it never had an outbreak, and fishes are all healthy and colorful. The worst was a few Ich spots and I’d tried 2-week temp+salt but... So I started to look into UVS.
It is good to know the benefits of regular operation.
Also, I was told that frequent switch on/off will deficient the bulb output, true?
Appreciate the info.
NZ

 

[Dr Joe]

Frequent switching (strobing or every 5-10 minutes yes, once or twice a day is minimal (every time the light is turned on the inrush of current expands the filament and when it cools it contracts, so after a period the filament stresses and fails).

The lamps if run constantly are good for 6-8 months and if frequently turned on/off will not last much longer (elapsed time wise).

I think an institute or someone did a test on lamp life if turned on/off frequently.

Dr Joe

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[Scorponok]

If you are worried about bacteria why don't you try this wonder stuff and report back to us the result?

http://www.junomultimedia.com/a3m/octagon/index.htm

This stuff is so miraculous. Check out its quote/unquote:

"EBB will considerably reduce the use of Chlorine by digesting bacteria into a non threatening species."

"Using EBB assist in controlling bacteria growth responsible for causing foul or bad odours emanating from the water."

"EBB renders the immediate environment safe by digesting the unwanted bio-organisms in the water."

 

[nzhang1001]

Thanks for the reply, Dr.

If you are worried about bacteria why don't you try this wonder stuff and report back to us the result?

http://www.junomultimedia.com/a3m/octagon/index.htm

This stuff is so miraculous. Check out its quote/unquote:

"EBB will considerably reduce the use of Chlorine by digesting bacteria into a non threatening species."

"Using EBB assist in controlling bacteria growth responsible for causing foul or bad odours emanating from the water."

"EBB renders the immediate environment safe by digesting the unwanted bio-organisms in the water."

Not in 3 years