How do I know my UV is working ?

[Enkay]

Hello All,

 

How would I know if I need a new bulb in my UV? Is there a specific sign or do I just wait until the old one blows out?

 

Thanks!

[John Ford]

I'm pretty sure they are supposed to be changed once a year like a t5. That's what I did with mine in the freshwater tanks. I don't run one in my reef

[LCDRDATA]

Generally there should be something about replacement timing in the instructions. As John stated, I think they are somewhat like T5s in that they become significantly less effective after a given period even if light is still coming out (although I'm not sure offhand what that time period is). As to whether it's still operating, I know at least some of them have little ports or windows that you can view to see if the bulb is still producing light.

[Enkay]

The bulb is still producing light. I had bought this last year along with all the other stuff. I never set it up so it was just sitting around. I do not know how long it was in operation before I got it. I just set it up on my tank like yesterday. Was wondering if I should get a new bulb straight away or should I wait and see for some time first.