UV Sterilizer question

[meowzer]

I just bought an internal UV sterilizer w/power head (pump included) for my 225g tank. I have not put it in yet (just got home) probably install tomorrow but I wanted some opinions.
I am sorry to say that I know there have been threads on this item, but I have not really read them yet...sooo...can anyone tell me if this item is a good thing or not (if not I'll take it back)

 

[natclanwy]

I believe UV sterilizers have there place, but that place isn't on a DT. I think that they are great on a QT and your LFS holding tanks but never on your DT. The reason being a UV sterilizer kills indiscriminantly, kills the good along with the bad so it will kill all of the living plankton in your reef tank along with parasites. You can keep your tank clear of parasites and other harmful organisms simply by using good husbandry (ie using a QT, selecting healthy fish, buying from reputable dealers, maintaining good water quality ect...)

 

[fatcats]

i agree with the previous post that they are bad because they kill indiscriminantly but i dont agree that they have no place on a display tank. I would keep a one inline attached to a sump and use it maybe once or twice a month or when you have a breakout
i have not had a single infection in my tank for 2 years and that is mainly through good husbandry techniques

 

[meowzer]

So I should take it back and get my $60 back???? 2 say don't use it...anyone else? So far I am taking it back.

 

[natclanwy]

UV sterilizers only kill free floating organisms, they will do nothing for algae or bacteria on rocks, or parasites that are living on fish so you can't wait until you have an outbreak to use it. They also produce a significant amount of heat which may cause the need for a chiller if you don't already have one.

 

[gforce30]

Originally Posted by meowzer
http:///forum/post/2898113
So I should take it back and get my $60 back???? 2 say don't use it...anyone else? So far I am taking it back.
I would return it and get a coralife.. One of the best UV's.