Advice please -re: value of UV steralizer

[gridley]

Thanks - now to show more of my lack of knoweldge - do you know whether this turbo twist is inline, sump or hang one? What ar ethe advantages / disadvantages of the various kinds? Thanks

[albert_dao]

Try to snag one of the Emperor Aquatics brand if you can. They are, by far, the best sterilizer on the market.

http://www.emperoraquatics.com/smart...terilizers.php

I've used five different UV sterlizer models and these were the only ones I could get behind.

[RuGlu6]

here is very inexpensive UV light, bulbs are available no problem.
If you want to get you water sterilized a lot, run LESS water through the unit.
If your water is not infected and not much algae then you can turn it off or have more flow through.

http://www.aquatraders.com/category-s/8.htm

(External Hang-On or In-Line Installation.

When using at the proper flow rates, UV Sterilizer can effectively eliminate algae bloom and help control fish disease. Features high quality quartz sleeve maximizing transmission rate, additional hose adapter and mounting kit enhance installation flexibility. Suitable for freshwater, saltwater aquariums, and ponds.)

Also there is one more use that i get from mine.
When there is a seasonal flu, i use it in our bedrooms to sterilize the air, walls and whatever UV light can get to. Its like having your own Sun to sterilize the room. Very effective! Just open the unit and turn it on with out the outer shell to expose the bulb.
Obviously this is done when no one is around and kids are not allowed in these rooms when UV is on. A note on the door is also good idea as a reminder for ourselves.
I usually put it on the light switch operated wall plug so i can just turn it on /off without looking from behind the door.

[globaldesigns]

As someone that has run them a few times, and different models, I have chosen to do without. They are good and beneficial, but can also be bad... If not use correctly.

Just do your research and decide the reason for wanting it.

[gridley]

Thank you to everyone for your advice and help.

[wickedfrags]

I have spend disturbing amount of time and money in the saltwater hobby since the mid 90's and have owned 3 saltwater tanks over 200 gallons. I just set up a 90G reef tank with a bubble king skimmer and a Vertex Illumina.............a UV sterilizer was never even considered. Unless it is used on a quarantine system without a sand bed.......you will never see the diffference between using one and not using one. just my 2 cents.

[gridley]

Originally Posted by wickedfrags

I have spend disturbing amount of time and money in the saltwater hobby since the mid 90's and have owned 3 saltwater tanks over 200 gallons. I just set up a 90G reef tank with a bubble king skimmer and a Vertex Illumina.............a UV sterilizer was never even considered. Unless it is used on a quarantine system without a sand bed.......you will never see the diffference between using one and not using one. just my 2 cents.

Thanks very much. I appreciate your thought as mine is also a 90G. Out of courisoity, what modle of Bubble Kin Skimer do you have - my wife and I are liely going shopping on Friday for one. Also interested in more info on your lighting - I have had people recommend several brands - but no one has mentioned the Vertx Illumina - I'm assuming that is an LED?