UV strerilizers in Reef tanks & Closed loop ?

[zeltar]

I would like to hear your thoughts on using a UV on a reef tank and CL systems.

I have been keeping tank for around 18 years and have really seen technology come a long way in the "tanking" buisness.

I currently do not have a tank runing since moving from my condo into an apartment But just found out yesterday that we got the go on a new condo. So I get to set my my tanks back up, woohoo.

I have a 150 (60x24x24) glass and have everything except for LR and water to get it going. I have been reading about the use of "fuges" for nitrate control and like the idea, but my old setup had a UV connected to aid in water clarity and for the saftey of the few fish I like to keep also. Would a UV have adverse effects on the fuge in requards to the copods and such that supposedly "feed" the corals and other animals in the main tank?


Second qesution: Closed loop circulation.

Another new theroy since I have last had water in a tank. My old system had a Rio 1700 connected to a 4' 1/2" pcv spary bar (diy).
I did the trick but I like the idea of getting any heat generating objects out of the water. Would anyone consider this mandatory if possible?

thanks in advance for your replies/comments.

Great site.
--Eric

 

[jks1]

here's a rough sketch on how I did mine. Water comes in to the sump from 2 overflows. In my case these are 1.5". On the right overflow I used a "T", reduced the output going into the fuge to 1", and added a ball valve to control the flow into the fuge.

The fuge overflows to the left into the return pump compartment, and is pumped back into the tank. This way the fuge is unaffected by the skimmer and UV.

Both overflows are piped into the left compartment where the skimmer is. They overflow through a set of baffles into the center compartment and are returned to the tank.

I plumbed my UV into the first compartmetn with the skimmer with flex pipe, just ran a small 300gph subnersible pump to drive it.

As for CL- I firmly believe in them. Especially if you wish to keep SPS corals. They do reduce heat and provide significant water flow. There are several plans floating around for you to look at

Hope this helps, and welcome back to the hobby!!


Hope this helps ya

 

[NaH2O]

WELCOME TO REEF FRONTIERS!!!

I think UV Sterilizers are good for a tank. They remove the microscopic algae, bacteria, fungus, virus, and other pathogens from the water as it passes through the sterilizer. Protein skimmers are, IMO, an essential piece of equipment, too. I, personally, wouldn't skimp on a high quality skimmer in order to get a UV. Instead, save up for the UV sterilizer for a later purchase (if budget is a concern).

With regards to adverse effects on the pods - you don't need to be concerned about that. Some may get damaged as they go through, but the fish that eat them won't mind, Corals actually get their food from their symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae), fish waste and detritus.

Here is a good thread on Coral Feeding

Hope this helps!!

 

[zeltar]

Good to know, thanks for the replies.

I have the skimmer part well covered as I have had around 10 different models but have settled on the AquaC EV-240 and a Berlin XL. I think I have a skimmer fetish . I wish I had a basement as some folks do so I could have a 6 footer, that would be very cool.

Thanks again

 

[Scooterman]

I agree with above, one CL with an external pump will run cooler than having pumps inside the water. Good circulation, skimming & vacuuming with LR, is principal filtration, is this the only way, no just a suggested, practiced, & proven way but by far not cut in stone. UV, you have it, I like them but I don't have one, I do want one.

(These are my opinions, protected by law, copywrited, no one under penalty of law should reproduce above statements, or broadcast, this includes tax, title & license. This document is to remain the soul property of they originators, & means absolute nothing other than for practical use & such said owner isn't responsible or liable by law by any means or manner.)

 

[acropora]

I have been keeping marine tanks for about 25 years now. And, I have not used a U/V light for the last 14 years and I don't miss it. But that's just me.The water quality achieved today by using L.R. and/or L.S., a Refugium with macro algae , protein skimming,carbon(sparingly), and R.O./D.I. water will provide excellent water quality for your system. Other options to consider are ways to meet the Calcium/ Alk demands. This can be achieved by Kalk additions,two part additives or a Calcium Reactor.If you plan on using a closed loop then it is best to have your tank drilled for them now. A good external pump for your closed loop is the way to go.