UV discussion link

[flowerseller]

This link just showed up in my e-mail box from one of my oldest fish buddys.

I thought since it's been a recent topic I'd post it up to create some discussion again.

He's been using this UV stuff almost as long as I and was surprised to realize he had a problem.

We have been working him through it so far with only one loss.

He has replaced his bulb after 3.5 years and done nothing else to rectify the issue.

He will up to a CurrentUSA gamma 40w also as soon as it comes through the mail.

 

Have you replaced your UV bulb lately or cleaned the quartz sleeve?

[HowardofNOVA]

FWIW

IMO the benefits FAR outweigh the Negatives!

Evidence 101:

I've almost always ran one and never had an issue with Ich or anything. Since I've moved 5wks ago I FAILED to put the unit back online.

About 2 wks ago I noticed my B/W had a case of Popeye on one side. Then ich showed, then going to the Powder Blue Tang, Yellow Eye Kole, Yellow Tang and all 5 of my Blue/Yellow Striped Neon Gobies!

I finally got the 15w UV Sterilizer back online but have lost my B/W and PBT and have seen only 1 of my 5 Neon Gobies.

I'm going to try to reset up my 10g QT tonight and see if I can catch then treat them. It's not looking good!

RSarvis please bring my order to BRK tomorrow.

[Rascal]

Chip (and other resident UV experts):

 

How often do you clean the quartz sleeve? I have had mine (Current 15W) for about 1 year now. The one time I replaced the bulb (after 8 months -- too long), the quartz sleeve was solid white. I believe this was due to a period when my Alk was uknowingly off the charts high, leading to a lot of calcium carbonate precipitation on everything. I haven't checked it since then because I haven't seen any signs of problems in my tank, but your post has me wondering.

 

A related question, because I will probably upgrade to a larger unit at some point: has anyone had any experience with the UV units with the wipers? Do they keep the sleeve clean?

[dschflier]

I have been told that what you are looking for when buying UV unit is how close the water is to the bulb. I have been told that the best Sterilizer in that respect is the aqua ultra violet sterilizers. I am actually buying one and after I get it running will post my review of it. I would love to hear other opinions.

[jamesbuf]

I'm having a very similar experience that Howard had. About 2 weeks ago, I just happen to look down and realize my 57watt Aqua UV sterilizer was not on. I believe my bulb burned out, but since it was still under warranty, Aqua wanted to inspect my transformer too. I sent the bulb and transformer back to Aqua and am still waiting for my replacement. 2 days ago I noticed a couple white spots on some of the fish so I borrowed Scott's 8watt gamma sterilizer until my parts come in. I hadn't had any problems with my system since I first put the unit on. I will NEVER run a system without UV on it again.