Is there a specific size sterilizer for size of tank? interested in lifeguard unit, have 220 gallon tank. Was thinking of 40 watt unit. Any suggestions out there too big, too small
I'm sure there are size guidelines out there, but to me, it's more important to match the recomended flow of the UV unit. If the flow is too much, you will loose the benefit of the UV. too slow, and you will not be sterilizing as efficiently as you could be. I have a 25W unit on my 120, so I'd think a 40W would be appropriate for your 220.
My take on UV's is, go big or stay home, although having one is better than not. I've got a 25 watt LG on my 135. I would have gone to the 40 if it fit under the stand. There's two reasons I feel the way I do about bigger is better. First, a bigger UV doesn't "killem" any deader but, it doesn't let any get by either. Too small of a UV unit may kill some but, not all. I've heard the "bugs" that get by alive have altered genes, DNA or something. It may render them harmless, maybe not. Second, UV bulbs lose power/effectiveness over time. The bulbs are supposed to be replaced every year. If you are getting 100% kill out of a 25 watt unit. That kill ratio will drop some over a year. If you have a 40 watt unit, you still get 100% kill. Because of the extra punch of the 40, I believe the unit will go two maybe three years and still be more effective than the 25. It's just conjecture/theory but, it seems logical, at least to me.
UV effectiveness also depends on flow rate. Pay attention to the recommended flow rate for what ever unit you decide on. A slower flow rate than recommended will guarantee a better kill rate but may be too slow for the size tank you have. Again, a bigger unit serves you better. You can push more water through, killing more "bugs". After all, that's what we use UVs for so, the more "bugs" you kill over a longer time-period the better off your system. That's why, "bigger is better" in my humble opinion.
Dick
__________________ Amphibious
Reaching my 70th BD, I realize that I cannot help but grow old. However, I refuse to grow up!!! My wife would tell you, "He may be 70 but, He's going on 17". Life is wonderful with a woman like that.
Dick
The 25 watt has rating of 760 gph needing working height of 42 inches to change bulb, the 40 watt has rating of 1500 gph needing working height of 64 in to change bulb. I dont have the height for 40 watt, but with the rating of flow of the 25 watt at 3 times the tank gallons would that work? or i would have to disconnect 40 watt from system to change bulb. If you think the 40 watt better i"ll make it work. whats your thoughts?
did you get my email on plumbing and sump design your working on for me
Yes.
Quote:
The 25 watt has rating of 760 gph needing working height of 42 inches to change bulb, the 40 watt has rating of 1500 gph needing working height of 64 in to change bulb. I dont have the height for 40 watt, but with the rating of flow of the 25 watt at 3 times the tank gallons would that work? or i would have to disconnect 40 watt from system to change bulb. If you think the 40 watt better i"ll make it work. whats your thoughts?
Would the 25 watt work? Yes. What it wouldn't do is give you the extra margin of safety and bulb life I mentioned. I hate all forms of Ichy things we run into in our aquariums. Having the larger unit is simply OVERKILL, which I advocate. You don't have to do it. I wanted the 40 watt but, went with the 25 for the same reason you are leaning that way. But, my tank size is 135 yours is 220. Part of planning out our systems is making decisions like this. It helps to get input from others but, ultimately it comes down to you. I have to visualize your 220 from a picture. You get the luxury of looking into the cabinet and saying, if I do this size sump, it will leave this much room. Can I fit a skimmer, UV, and any other accessories you might want now and in the future, in here? One clue, aquarium cabinet stands never have enough room. That's why I envy people with a room behind the aquarium for all this s**t we have. Have you seen Reefbaby's equipment room??? To die for!!!
Dick
__________________ Amphibious
Reaching my 70th BD, I realize that I cannot help but grow old. However, I refuse to grow up!!! My wife would tell you, "He may be 70 but, He's going on 17". Life is wonderful with a woman like that.
Good discussion. I got a 3 month old Current USA Gamma 8 watt UV sterilizer at my club's Workshop for $20. Listening to this discussion it may be a little underpowered for my 54 (sump = 10 gallons, minus however much room the rock and sand take). It won't fit on my nano. So, should I just save it for my QT or run it on my 54?
40 watt it is then. I'll make it work not a problem. I too like over kill. I for the most part want to try to do this once. would like to for-see as many future problems now as i can. Dick i await you sump design, let me know if you need anything else, hope the drawings help
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