UV Filter

[wasabi8888]

Hi all

Does UV filter aid in the prevention/removal of BGA and algae?

Can I run a UV filter with a power head instead of connecting to an external filter?

[michael lai]

I suppose you're refering to the standard UV units out there. IT's not a filter. Yes, it removes algae and harmful bacteria. There is a flowrate and wattage requirement though, not very sure of it myself but can look at the unit's packing. It will usually state the flowrate and the wattage required. I've used it with a ehiem and separately with a power head. I prefer the powerhead as it is more fuss free.

[wasabi8888]

Hi Michael

Thanks for the reply
1. So, BGA and other algae such as BBA, hair algea will be removed by it?
2. What wattage would you recommend for a 2ft tank?
3. Where can i read more about the benefits of a UV filter?

[michael lai]

you're welcome, I'm not sure whether it kills all algae but I do know it kills the spores of the algae provided there is ample exposure to the UV light when the water is flowing through. That means the flow must not be too quick that some parts of the water are not expose to the UV. I was recommended a 9W for a 3 footer so theorically a 7W should be ample for a 2 footer.
You should be able to get some more information at the 'Krib'. But sometimes I find they are just too technical for hobbyists like me.

[StanChung]

Hi Wasabi,

The UVS-ultraviolet sterilizer can only destroy algae if it passes thru the unit. It has to be a combination of sufficiently/repeatedly exposed to this light so the flowrate of the powerhead/filter pushing water thru this unit theoretically should not be too high or too low for effective results. The wattage of the UV-lamp is also important. More watts and more kill power-faster pump can be used and faster results.

It effectively removes green water, GDA[higher wattage bulb needed 13W above] and also cloudy water due to floating organic matter[bacteria etc.] Makes the water very clear.

So please note it won't remove algae that's not exposed to this light. So only small organisms that pass thru this light can be destroyed including protozoan, bacteria and viruses. Eg. effective to control ich.

IMO will not do anything for BBA, BGA, Hair algae infections already on the plants etc.

Don't need to turn it on 24/7 except for disease control.
Theoretically can alter amino acids/enzymes that we add in to boost plant growth.

Put it on timer for 2 hours a day is sufficient IMO.

This topic has been discussed before. You can do a search on UVS

[Shadow]

I was told that only 12W and above is effective, below that the intensity not high enough to kill whatever pass through it. Sound logical, so I trust the info to be correct though I never try/confirm it my self.

[StanChung]

My 9W works well in my 3ft tank. I used it to control cloudiness and greenwater.

I have a 7W one that's a HOB as well. This is a design that incorporates the right flowrate with the matching bulb. It works for small tanks.

[chingkt]

I having a 9W UV filter. Very effective as after installing it, the water look very clear. But the downside it will rise the water temperature. This can be prevented by control the on and off time. Very happy with it.

[wasabi8888]

Thanks all

Since i do not have an external filter, can i connect with a power head?

[StanChung]

Er, I think Michael has already said that in post 2 in this thread!

[wasabi8888]

ooooppss... sorry