[Powder Blue]

Could you tell me of the advantages and disadvantages of a UV sterilizer.

The reason I'm asking is a mate of mine has been loosing fish from time to time with no obvious reason. They seem to suddenly die usually in the evening and we cannot fathom why. He has thought of installing a UVS to possibly kill an unknown bacteria or parasite that we cannot see. Are the UVS a common tool in the maintenance of a healthy home?

The system is a 4ft FLR tank that has no ammonia,nitrite or nitrate.

[cubalz]

Advantages:
Kills free floating bacteria and parasites
Sterilizes the water

Disadvantages:
Kills free floating food for filter feeders (this is a big one!)
Heats the water
Additional plumbing needed
Additional electricity needed
Expensive
I personally have an Aqua UV sterilizer on my reef and I like it but if I had to do it all over again, I am not sure that I would buy another one. These things are part of a highly debated topic that goes on and on and on.

Originally Posted by Powder Blue

Could you tell me of the advantages and disadvantages of a UV sterilizer.

The reason I'm asking is a mate of mine has been loosing fish from time to time with no obvious reason. They seem to suddenly die usually in the evening and we cannot fathom why. He has thought of installing a UVS to possibly kill an unknown bacteria or parasite that we cannot see. Are the UVS a common tool in the maintenance of a healthy home?

The system is a 4ft FLR tank that has no ammonia,nitrite or nitrate.

[MaxaRu]

Hello every one,
Please tell me can I change one brand of sea salt which I was using for four years on new one when I make regullar change of water ? The reason I'm asking I can't get anywhere my usual brand "Tropic Marin" sea salt.
May be you can recommend me which breand better to use?

Thanks a bunch !

[MaxaRu]

I wanted to place a new thread, but sent it to you by mistake