Advice needed in using UV sterilizers?

[genes]

Hi guys

Need help from those who are using UV sterilizer.

Bought an eleven watts UV sterilizer for my 3ft tank and connected it to my cannistor outlet. (suppose to be connected to outlet right?)

Is the wattage enough for a 3ft tank and how long am i suppose to leave the unit ON?

How does UV sterilizers affect fert regime?

Thanks
Gene

[Rupert]

Hi Gene

I don’t believe that it makes any difference whether it is connected to outlet or inlet. I have mine connect to the inlet, as it is convenient, plus if you want an external CO2 reactor then this can be connected to the outlet without impacting your configuration.

The wattage required is linked to flow rate, but 11 watts on a 3 foot should be ok. I have 11 watts connected to an Eheim 2028 on a 4ft tank.

I have read that UV sterilizers affect micro eg FE, but that is unsubstantiated, so don’t worry about it.

Lastly I leave my UV sterilizer on all the time and treat it as a preventative device. I originally bought it as I had a cloudy tank [immature] 12 months ago… it had no impact, but felt better afterwards.

[genes]

Thanks Rupert

So as to say i cannot connect external reactors to the outlet anymore? oh no.... My thoughts on connecting to the outlet was because of convenience in cleaning it. Being at outlet, the water should be more clean and free from dirts.

I am using it to treat algae bloom, green water etc...

[BFG]

Genes, Rupert said that it doesn't matter where the UV sterilizer is situated. It doesn't make a difference.

[genes]

Yes he did. But rupert is right....Would be better actually on the inlet because the external reactor will be fixed on the outlet. Missed that out cause i am currently using a internal reactor.