how to choose right uv sterilizer

[lilrono577]

i have a 90 gal saltwater tank set up with a mag 9.5 what would be the best affordable uv sterilizer/clarifier to match that return pump and be effective against parasites and bacteria

[stevem]

there are many good brands out there that will work fine. The mag 9.5 is a very good pump, but too strong to run through a uv. Uv's need the water running through slow to maximize the contact time, in order to work well. Which ever uv you buy read the instructions on how fast the water should be passing through. Most uv's work best with about 200- 300 gph, your pump put out about 950gph. You would need to install a tee with a valve to use that pump or install a seperate pump for the uv. If the water runs through too fast the uv will not work well.

[lilrono577]

ty i decided to buy a uv sterilizer that works on its own no need for powerhead or connect to return pump it has its own lil pump i just set it in the sump

[stevem]

sound good, just remeber to change the bulbs once a year. even though they lite most bulbs are only effective for about 12 monthes.

[lilrono577]

yea it says to change between 9 to 12 months
its a 9 watt uv says good for up to 100 gal