U.V sterilizer in SPS only tank

[Jar*Head]

I want to add the U.V sterilizer in my SPS only system (550G+/_). What is the best size U.V sterilizer for my system? I have something in mind but i am not sure if it is strong enough. It is the Aqua U.V sterilizer 3x40w

http://www.customaquatic.com/customaquatic/itemdetail.asp?itemid=UV-AUA00120

How much flow should i feed through this thing? The company recommended 2000gph but i plan to feed it very slow (900gph) or hook it up into my overflow drain so all the bacteria will get zap on it way to the sump :D

Sorry for so many question, and thanks for the input :D :D

Happy reefing

[Goodwood]

Not sure if this will help but I run a 25watt Aqua on my 90 with a maxi jet 400 (around 100gph). I would say that is a good size unit to run but I might try it around 500-600gph. Other folks might tell you different.

[Pescados]

why do you want to add one? sorry, just curious.

[Jar*Head]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10027717#post10027717 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Goodwood
Not sure if this will help but I run a 25watt Aqua on my 90 with a maxi jet 400 (around 100gph). I would say that is a good size unit to run but I might try it around 500-600gph. Other folks might tell you different.

Hi Goodwood, thanks for the input. I know the slower the better. I may just use the eheim 1260 instead of 1262. I don't want to put too much flow through it.

[Jar*Head]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10027744#post10027744 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Pescados
why do you want to add one? sorry, just curious.

To control unwanted bacteria, parasite, any creepy and crawly we may not be able to see.

Bumb for more input. Thanks

[SeanT]

Research the Emperor brand of UV's.
Very reliable and high quality.

[Jar*Head]

Thanks Sean. I will do some research on it

[Goodwood]

I hate having a bunch of crap plugged in but my UV is one thing I cant give up. Makes the water look a bit more crisp, similar to ozone

[gasman059]

I use lifeguard-its been good to me for many years-pond and reef.

[Jar*Head]

Are you guy run them 24/7?

[swannking]

You also have to consider how easily you can take the quartz sleeve out for cleaning since your calcium and alk levels will be high in a SPS tank. I am running the lifeguard 80W unit and has been happy with it. I found that I need to clean the sleeves (soaking them in vinegar bath) at least once every 4 weeks if not more to keep them clean of calcium deposite. With the one with the wiper, if you use it often (I would said every week), it might be OK. If you leave it longer, I would think the calcium deposite will be hard to get off without soaking the sleeves in vinegar.

[Goodwood]

24/7, no wiper only have to clean my sleeve evey six months, somehow is stays clean. I have a friend who says his gets nasty evey week, but its not an Aqua

[delv]

Emporer's are the best. The wiper is a gimmick (little if anything is going to "grow" on the sleeve. Emporer added it because other brands did...I'd save the $75 or so it costs. I like the HO versions...higher output, smaller footprint, though close...bulb replacement ends up cheaper (one 120 bulb vs. 3 40 watt).

I'd call Emporer and speak to a tech...they'll calculate the needed wattage and flow through for what you want to acheive.

d.

[gasman059]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10035109#post10035109 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by REEFER714
Are you guy run them 24/7?
I do!

[Jar*Head]

I was gonna buy the Aqua U.V cuz my friend offer it to me for a good deal :)

[Ostentum]

Love my Aqua U.V. IMO one of the best on the market