Built in UV Function in cannister Filter

[redfever]

Recently bought an external cannister filter with a built in UV Function. Anyone here using such filters? How do these things work and are they suitable for planted tanks? The UV is supposed to help against algae. Pros and cons? Please advise. Thank you.

[ZackZhou]

Only thing I can say is that the canister is made in china and there is replacement once the uv is spoiled.

[thebaldingaquarist]

the UV light will kill any algae spores / bacteria in the water flow. in theory it would slow/stop algae growth. but will do nothing to established algae.
I have used one in my planted tank until the bulb needed replacement (then i sold it).

from my Point of View
Pros
1. inhibit algae growth
2. improve water clarity (possibly water quality?)

cons
1. additional power requirement
2. bulb may be difficult to replace.

[bossteck]

Is there a separate control for the UV? Or would the bulb be on as long as the filter is running?
The heat brought about by the UV would be another consideration.

I run my stand-alone UV sterilizer on a timer from midnite to 6am each day, my rationale for doing that is that my tank lights would be off during that period, so the UV wouldn't add to my already not-so-cool tank.

[ZackZhou]

Sorry, I meant there is no replacement.
Another point, less media,
Wonder why ehiem never comes out with a canister with uv build in?

[redfever]

What i bought wasnt china made. It's a SERA product, made in Germany. Picture attached below. What i need to know is, when do i switch on the UV function? All the time or only when i start to see algae growing? Will it harm the fishes or plants in the long run? Pardon the questions, as its my first time dealing with UV. Thanks.

30605_sera-fil-bioactive_400_uv_diep.jpg

[bossteck]

My practice is: leave the UV on for 24hours for a week or so whenever I add new fishes. Otherwise, just turn it on 5-6 hours per day.

[ladygaga]

No canister makers can make UV bulbs themselves. Bulbs are purchased or OEMed.

[redfever]

Thanks for the tips and pictures. Cheers.