UV Sterilizer 90 Gallon

[Elude82]

Hi everyone, and I hope everyone is having a great day! Need some guidance from the community. I am in the market for a UV Sterilizer. I have narrowed it down to two: the Vecton Titan 25 Watt and the IceCap 40 Watt. I am leaning towards the IceCap as I can get 15 more watts for the same price(discount code usage). So, if anyone can weigh in to sway a final decision, it would be greatly appreciated! Then the second part that I need guidance, what pump should I get. I know people tend to use UV sterilizers for two different things. One for clarifying and algae control, and the other to help reduce the risk of disease amongst the tank mates. My first priority would be whatever is best for the fish. It’s a 90 Gallon FOWLR tank. Can I get a flow rate that is both algae control and disease control? What flow rate should I look for? The only information I can find is max flow rate, but I know that is just one piece of a puzzle.
1. Vecton 25 Watt vs. IceCap 40 Watt?
2. Can I get best of both worlds for use?
3. Which flow rate?
Thank you all in advance!

 

[rtparty]

I can’t speak on which brand to get but as for a pump, grab a Jebao/Jecod off Amazon. Then you can tune the desired flow rate and not break the bank

 

[charleydavis]

Hi. I don't know what a good flow rate would be, but can only say that "dwell time" is also an important variable. So ideally a slow flow passing by the UV radiation is better. But you also want to have the entire volume passing thru UV. I presume it will be a separate loop within your system so it will not impact the return flow rate. My instict tells me that a realtively slow flow is best. The manufacturers directions should include a recomended flow rate I would hope. More wattage means more radiation, but I think either 25 or 40 watts is more than enough for a 90 gallon tank.

 

[MarineandReef Jaron]

We sell many UVs, and I have used many over the years. My two favorite units for the money are IceCap and Lifegard. Some of the really cheap units have no replacement parts, which means an overall shorter life. The seals, sleeves, and small plastic parts in a UV wear out faster than on other equipment because UV light is harsh on everything.

Both the Lifegard and IceCap are more affordable than some of the high-end brands but they have real customer service and plenty of parts to keep them running. I would go with the Ice Cap 40 for the price.