uv question

[scarface]

how long should a uv run in a reef setup? Being that I read it kills all bacteria good and bad, that possiblity couldnt be good to our eco systems. So I guess people who have had experience with using a uv in their reef system please give me some feedback as far as the duration this is left on. I have heard some people run them 24/7, some 8 hours per day. Thanks ***)

 

[lion_crazz]

They do not kill all good and bad bacteria, but they kill a substantial amount of bad, and a small amount of good things.
Me personally, I really do not see the purpose in running one at all.

 

[scarface]

doesnt it also make the water crystal clear??

 

[lion_crazz]

Yes, it helps in clarifying the water if you are not using RO water or if you do not keep up on changing it. However, what about someone like me? I do weekly 10-15% water changes and my water could not be clearer. That's why I don't see the purpose in running one. I guess they are good if you have problems with keeping the water clear (i.e. on an outdoor pond).

 

[scarface]

oh ok i see because i do about 15% water changes monthly, I purchased the coralife turbo twist for my tank and wanted to see if it would make the water run a little clearer only cause i have a yellowish tint which is not noticeable, but since i notice it I want to do something about it

 

[lion_crazz]

Yes, then that will most likely do what you are trying to achieve.

 

[scarface]

thanks for the help

 

[farslayer]

I run an 18W UV on my 125G 24x7. I have had problems with ich in the past in other tanks and a UV pretty much took care of keeping the water free of the parasites. It is a precautionary measure and I do not feel safe without one. I also run UV sterilizers in my AC system to keep the air clean, you can smell the difference as they effectively eliminate pet odors, dander, pathogens, all sorts of nasties.

 

[helpme74]

I have a coralife turbo twist 36 watt on my 75 gallon and i run my uv 24/7 with no problems

 

[joncat24]

i run 2 24 watt sterilizers 24/7 and up to this point no problems. and if the water got any clearer, it owuld be gone>>>LOL :hilarious

 

[squishy]

been running one for 2 years 24/7 couldn't complain. Will be one on my next tank too.

 

[chilwil84]

run mine 24/7 my water is clear but i think the carbon and water changes do that better but i bought it so i figure i will run it wont say it hurts or helps

 

[farslayer]

Activated carbon definately works, I run activated carbon, phosgard, myu 18W UV and two skimmers on my tank. The water is crystal freakin' clear baby!