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 Aquarium UV sterilizers use high intensity ultraviolet light to kill free floating microbes - bacteria, fungi, viruses, parasites and algae (they will not cure illnesses). UV light has the ability to effect the function of living cells by altering the structure of the cells nuclear material, the water is pumped through the UV chamber and exposed to this light. The end result is the organisms die off, eliminating these nuisances from your aquarium water. UV sterilizers require a pump with a specific flow rate to run water through them, it is important that the pump output is at a flow rate within the acceptable range of the UV sterilizer. All UV sterilizers require water pump or circulation pump and plumbing to transport water from the aquarium, through the UV chamber, and back to the aquarium.
In-line Sterilizers
In-line sterilizers are set up directly 'in-line' with the main filtration system. The UV should be placed after the mechanical filtration unit and be the last device before water returns to the aquarium. Most in-line UV sterilizers are designed for larger aquariums and incorporate higher wattage bulbs encased in a long, cylindrical housing.
Hang-On Sterilizers
These sterilizers are mounted directly to the back of the aquarium. They are usually used as a stand-alone device fed by a submerged powerhead. These tend to be easier to install and maintain.
Here are some issues that might reduce the kill rate of the bacteria:
- Allowing the water to flow too fast past the UV light
- Build up of salt deposits or bacterial slime on the bulb will block light
- Fading of light due to an old bulb, average bulb replacement time is around 6 months
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