Using A UV Aquarium Sterilizer for Aquarium Maintenance

Sep 14
08:03

2010

Timothy Kessler

Timothy Kessler

  • Share this article on Facebook
  • Share this article on Twitter
  • Share this article on Linkedin

It is a good idea to add a UV aquarium sterilizer to any fish tank, but the point to remember is that you must use a UV aquarium sterilizer as an add on with your normal aquarium filters and needs to be the last stage of the filtration process. What is important that aquarium water passes through the normal aquarium filter before moving through the UV aquarium sterilizer unit. In this way, your normal aquarium filter will remove solids so that when the water passes through the UV aquarium sterilizer unit later, it is purified to the best results.

mediaimage
A UV aquarium sterilizer will kill algae,Using A UV Aquarium Sterilizer for Aquarium Maintenance Articles viruses, bacteria and parasites using ultraviolet bulbs. This sterilizer does a great job at cleaning the aquarium water to pristine conditions. Ultraviolet sterilizers do such a great job that there are a number of corporations out there that use this method to purify drinking water on a commercial scale and even to kill algae growth in outdoor ponds.

If you own an aquarium at home, you probably have several fish tank filters cleaning the water. A UV aquarium sterilizer is a good addition to any fish tank, but the point to remember is that you should be using a UV aquarium sterilizer as an add on with your normal fish tank filters and needs to be the last stage of the filtration process. It's important that fish tank water passes through the normal fish tank filter before moving through the UV aquarium sterilizer unit. In this way, your normal aquarium filter will remove solids so that when the water passes through the UV aquarium sterilizer unit later, it is purified to the best results.

As long as the bulb is not too old and it has sufficient wattage, your UV aquarium sterilizer will function well. Then, you will have to maintain the flow rate of the water and clean the quartz sleeve to ensure that it remains efficient.

The Bulb

With time, the UV bulb will start to lose its effectiveness, and needs to be changed at least twice a year. You will be able to buy bulbs between 8 watts and 130 watts - a higher wattage provides better cleaning. If you are using a lower wattage buld, you will need to have a lower flow rate in order to work well.

Flow Rate

The flow rate is another important factor to consider. A slower flow rate is more effective to kill algae, in addition to parasites and bacteria. The flow rates are measured in either gallons per hour or liters per hour. As an example, a sterilizer with a 15-watt bulb is sufficient to kill algae and bacteria at a 120 gph flow, but it won't kill parasites unless you reduce the flow rate to 75 gph.

Clean the Quartz

The quartz sleeve is located where the UV bulb fits into the device. A lot of people forget about this part of the UV aquarium sterilizer and do not clean it enough. {By cleaning it, you will remove|Cleaning the sleeve removes] build up and ensures that the UV aquarium sterilizer works at optimum levels. You will be able to purchase more expensive sterilizers which come with a wiper handle positioned outside of the device for fast and easy cleaning of the sleeve, so that you would not have to dismantle the sterilizer to clean it.

Luckily, it's easy to buy a UV aquarium sterilizer nowadays, either from a pet shop or online. These devices make a great addition to any fish tank, but they can be expensive, especially if you consider the cost to replace the bulbs.

People who own salt water aquariums are more likely to purchase a UV aquarium sterilizer because they improve the quality of the water and offer additional protection for expensive salt water fish.

Although a UV aquarium sterilizer is not really that necessary, many aquarium hobbyists do find that this device is great at maintaining clean water while keeping fish and other aquatic life healthy and happy. At the end of the day, it all comes down to personal choice and what you want to work well for your aquarium.

Also From This Author

Enhancing Your Outdoor Fish Pond with Durable Decor

Enhancing Your Outdoor Fish Pond with Durable Decor

Creating an outdoor fish pond is not just about filling a hole with water and adding fish. It's about crafting an aquatic haven that can endure the elements while providing a visually pleasing experience. Unlike indoor aquariums, outdoor ponds require careful consideration of weather resistance, visibility, and the unique perspective from which they are viewed. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of selecting ornaments that can withstand the forces of nature, offer advice on designing an outdoor fish pond, and discuss the integration of aquatic plants to enhance both beauty and ecosystem health.
Elevate Your Aquarium with Sci-Fi Splendor: A Guide to Nerd-Themed Decor

Elevate Your Aquarium with Sci-Fi Splendor: A Guide to Nerd-Themed Decor

Aquariums are not just about showcasing marine life; they're a canvas for creativity and personal expression. For enthusiasts of science fiction, the latest trend is to transform these underwater habitats into fantastical sci-fi landscapes. This guide delves into the most captivating nerd-themed tank decorations, inspired by blockbuster films and iconic TV series, that can turn your aquarium into an otherworldly adventure.
Enhancing Your Aquarium Aesthetics with Natural Driftwood

Enhancing Your Aquarium Aesthetics with Natural Driftwood

Creating a visually appealing aquarium is not just about the fish; it's about the entire habitat. One of the most effective ways to achieve a serene and natural underwater landscape is by incorporating driftwood. This naturally weathered wood, sculpted by the elements, offers a unique and organic beauty that manufactured decorations simply cannot match. Driftwood not only adds visual interest but also replicates the natural environments from which many fish species originate, bringing a slice of their native habitat into your home.