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CapnMorgan 
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The Capn'
Joined: August 19 2009
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 Topic: UV Sterilizers
Posted: September 27 2009 at 2:01pm |
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I was just wondering what everyone's opinion on UV Sterilizers are, what models are prefered or is this something that really isn't needed. I have used one on my freshwater systems forever, but am wondering if I need one for my salt tank as well. I know that they kill parasites like ich, hexamita, and others; but it seems like there is a lot of beneficial life in SW as well that would be killed off by the UV.
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Steve My Old 180G Mixed ReefCurrently: 120G Wavefront Mixed 29G Seahorse & Softies Running ReefAngel Plus x2 435-8
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Adam Blundell
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Posted: September 27 2009 at 2:14pm |
You summed it up. Some people like them and some don't. Some say they are effective in killing parasites, some say they don't. Some say they kill the good stuff, some say they don't. 
My opinion for now is that they are good and very beneficial.
Adam
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BobC63
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Posted: September 27 2009 at 3:03pm |
I highly recommend UV if you are looking to clarify your water
Slightly less highly recommended if you are looking to control Ich
The reason for less of a rec for UV for Ich (parasite) control is IMO you need a higher wattage, larger unit to handle parasites than just if you want to kill of algae spores and clarify the water
Also IMO I don't think UV kills off enough "good" stuff to warrant not using it
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- My Current Tank: 65g Starfire (sitting empty for 2+ years) -
* Marine & Reef tanks since 1977 *
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CapnMorgan
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Posted: September 27 2009 at 3:15pm |
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Thanks, what wattage do you recommend? I have a cleaner shrimp that keeps everyone parasite free, so I'm not too worried about external parasites.
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Steve My Old 180G Mixed ReefCurrently: 120G Wavefront Mixed 29G Seahorse & Softies Running ReefAngel Plus x2 435-8
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BobC63
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Posted: September 27 2009 at 3:18pm |
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For a 65g tank I'd look at something in the 12 -18w range
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- My Current Tank: 65g Starfire (sitting empty for 2+ years) -
* Marine & Reef tanks since 1977 *
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downhill_biker
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Posted: September 27 2009 at 7:27pm |
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I would agree with what was said. The problem with trying to kill parasites like ich is that:
A: not all the water passes through at once, so there is always a chance something is missed.
B: there is a kill rate, which is determined by wattage, diameter of sterilizer, and contact time. This is determined by flow rate, and length of tube.
They do work great for clearifying water, and I think the benefits outweigh any risks. They are IMO great pieces of equipment. I run a Aqua 40w on my 300g system.
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Make sure you post your best pictures every month in our POTM forum.
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CapnMorgan
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Posted: September 27 2009 at 8:21pm |
Thanks for all the info. I'm looking into getting one by next week. I'm looking at several models, the Turbo-twist, the Current USA Model, Submariner and the Via-Aqua.
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Steve My Old 180G Mixed ReefCurrently: 120G Wavefront Mixed 29G Seahorse & Softies Running ReefAngel Plus x2 435-8
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pa_reptileman_4
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Posted: September 27 2009 at 8:40pm |
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not needed imo.
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pitiful guppy tank.
shane
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downhill_biker
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Posted: September 27 2009 at 9:42pm |
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If you can find one used it will save you a bunch of money. If you have to buy new the viaaqua can be a good value, just make sure you oversize as they are cheaper chinese models and may not be quite as powerful as said to be. I used the 36w on my 72g for a long time.
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Make sure you post your best pictures every month in our POTM forum.
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CapnMorgan
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Posted: September 27 2009 at 10:25pm |
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I will keep that in mind for sure. Thanks for the help, wish I would've found this site a long time ago.
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Steve My Old 180G Mixed ReefCurrently: 120G Wavefront Mixed 29G Seahorse & Softies Running ReefAngel Plus x2 435-8
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downhill_biker
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Posted: September 27 2009 at 10:44pm |
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Yes, local reef clubs are very helpful. A great resource of both information and help in times of emergency. This is a great club, and I really enjoy it. Glad to have you here.
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Make sure you post your best pictures every month in our POTM forum.
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Dion Richins
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Posted: September 27 2009 at 11:49pm |
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I run a 54w on my 400g system with a 300mg ozone through a g4 skimmer. Only 1/2 of the water is ran through the UV at a time. My 250 has a 150mg ozone through a g3 and is not currently running a UV. I am looking for one at this time and it will be either a 36 or 54w unit.
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