Coralife UV sterilizer

[KPollard1986]

I just got this from a family member for free. Is this sterilizer any good? It will be on a 56 gallon column reef tank. It is an in-line sterilizer so it does not need to go in the DT. Anyone with experience with this or something similar? Any info is greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance!

 

[Ligershark]

I do not have experience with that particular model or brand however I would find out if they used it a lot or how old the unit is, that way you know if you should replace the bulb. I would set it up and run it for a a week or two before ordering the new bulb that way you dont waste money if the transformer doesnt work or it leaks. UV bulbs need to be replaced just like t-5 bulbs. Even though they are still lighting up they lose strength.

Make sure you run it at the appropriate gallon per hour rate. Too fast and it wont be as effective.

 

[KPollard1986]

I do not have experience with that particular model or brand however I would find out if they used it a lot or how old the unit is, that way you know if you should replace the bulb. I would set it up and run it for a a week or two before ordering the new bulb that way you dont waste money if the transformer doesnt work or it leaks. UV bulbs need to be replaced just like t-5 bulbs. Even though they are still lighting up they lose strength.

Make sure you run it at the appropriate gallon per hour rate. Too fast and it wont be as effective.

The good thing is he bought it and never used it and it also has a replacement bulb too. Its brand new lol. Thanks for the flow rate tip! I guess ill just give it a whirl and see how it goes.

 

[JoshKReef]

There is an aluminum reflector in there. Id recommend removing it. Works fine without it and no risk of rust

 

[ReeferBob]

I have that exact model and it works great. Bulb should be replaced every 6 months though.

 

[KPollard1986]

Thanks guys!

 

[mtraylor]

Its a descent UV sterilizer. I used that exact model on a planted aquarium and it had a hard time keeping up with algae. Probably needed to slow the flow on that aquarium. I used the 36watt on my 255 mixed reef for a long time before I upgraded it, and it did a good job. I have had no issues with the turbo twists. Nice and compact. I would not remove anything from it. Plug it up and let it work.