Do you use UV Sterilizer with your reef tank?

[rfny75]

I'm debating if I need one for my reef tank, thoughts?

 

[NYreefNoob]

i do now

 

[noodleman]

never used one

 

[MikeyNYC]

I've been back and forth on the issue of whether to purchase a UV myself. Most of what I've taken in from proponents are that they like them because they are helpful in preventing ICH and keeping it at bay. Others have said they don't like them because they remove other useful dissolved compounds from the water. Additionally, I've also been told that they kill pods, or perhaps it's better said that they reduce the number of pods, which definitely not a direction I'd want to head in.

Hopefully others with more time experience weigh in on the question, but at least here's what I've read or talked about with others up to this point.

 

[dreko]

I think the strength of the UV wattage along with the water flow through the unit, will determine the 'success' of the sterilizer. Prefilter the intake, and you will not kill pods.
As for Ich, read this on reefkeeping magazine

http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2003-10/sp/feature/index.php

It will prevent the spread of ich, but will cure individual fish currently affected

I don't believe it will "remove dissolved compounds"

Good luck

 

[rfny75]

Good article, thanks.

 

[REEF MANIA]

I never used one and my reef is doing great.

 

[Wes]

i dont use one

 

[scumonkey]

I have one and use one.........BUT- not all the time.
They are good if you have an algae flair up-they remove the spores.
They can also be used with good effect for a number of other things-
you should just not run one permanently. Use it as a tool to help
fight (or keep at bay), whatever your having a problem with-
then remove it. Make sure you don't get a calcium build up over
the bulb cover, this will render it useless.

 

[Chiefmcfuz]

No. Never.

 

[rfny75]

I have one and use one.........BUT- not all the time.
They are good if you have an algae flair up-they remove the spores.
They can also be used with good effect for a number of other things-
you should just not run one permanently. Use it as a tool to help
fight (or keep at bay), whatever your having a problem with-
then remove it. Make sure you don't get a calcium build up over
the bulb cover, this will render it useless.

Do you have it on a timer then? or just put it on when needed?

 

[scumonkey]

No timers, they must run continuously. Just put on when needed , after problem is solved- take off. I've never run mine for more than 2 months of continuous use.
Also, the bulbs must be fresh as they lose their ability to sterilize over time- 6 months is about their max useful lifespan.
Remember....UVS's are not cure alls...but rather a tool to help.