UV Sterilizer Install Questions

[jabberkaycee]

I want to install my UV sterilizer and have never used one before, so I have several questions. I plan on running it 24/7 for water clarity, and then adjust the flow in the event I need to kill parasites. Specifications:

90g (tank and sump). Approx 75 total water volume
25w AquaUV sterilizer
Main return pump - Neptune COR, currently set at 45%
3/4” tubing connectors for UV
Flow meter (not received yet)

1) The user manual says horizontal installation is best but says it can be installed vertically. What’s the downside to a vertical installation?

2) If I want to go ahead and run the UV before installing the flow meterz, how would I determine my approximate flow rate?

3) What size pump would you recommend for the UV?

4) In the below pic of my plumbing, can the return from the UV be used on the extra connector, or is that connector only for outflow?

5) Any other feedback or advice?

 

[W31Olds]

To achieve the flow rate you need to kill Parasites a larger unit is required. 40 Watts might be sufficient.

 

[Freenow54]

First Verify the light sometimes called a filter is a UV- C bulb for proper rating then from what I have read is to physical measure the time to fill a gallon jug , and do the math. Personally I would plumb it entirely separate so its easy to maintain ie a bypass line . Then do a third line dedicated for parasites already set up for flow rate ( Dose ) so you can switch it over right away

 

[JumboShrimp]

I would advise 'Not' placing the unit horizontally. It can trap large bubbles and have an undesirable effect on the bulb. Vertical is the way to go-- but if space constraints make it impossible to orient the unit any way but horizontal, try to at least mount it on on 'slant' (angle) to cut down on a fixed pocket of air. Hope that helps.

 

[Freenow54]

I would advise 'Not' placing the unit horizontally. It can trap large bubbles and have an undesirable effect on the bulb. Vertical is the way to go-- but if space constraints make it impossible to orient the unit any way but horizontal, try to at least mount it on on 'slant' (angle) to cut down on a fixed pocket of air. Hope that helps.

I have to disagree. Refer to manufacturers literature. Mine stated quite clearly a horizontal installation is preferred . My connections come off the top of the cylinder when installed this way .If it were vertical the entrapment could easily occur at the top

 

[JumboShrimp]

To each his own, I suppose. This photo (from a Pentair 40 UV install manual) first shows a vertical mounting-- noting that if horizontally mounted, "the electrical end should be positioned higher than the non-electrical end"-- i.e., a slant is needed. (Deviations in mounting/positioning is a safety hazard and voids the warranty.)

 

[Freenow54]

To each his own, I suppose. This photo (from a Pentair 40 UV install manual) first shows a vertical mounting-- noting that if horizontally mounted, "the electrical end should be positioned higher than the non-electrical end"-- i.e., a slant is needed. (Deviations in mounting/positioning is a safety hazard and voids the warranty.)

Very good reply . So they offer Both ways . I went to the site . I have done a fair amount of research, I think this is the best Explanation by a manufacturer I have seen. My Geek Explicitly says Horizontal is the best. That is why I did say check the manufacturers site. I am glad you responded with such a detailed explanation. I think I have found my choice of Filter regardless of the Cost. I have always searched for replacement parts as a deciding factor. I hope they are available and fairly reasonable. Thanks Again

 

[JumboShrimp]

I think I actually need to refine my comment, after more careful reading. Regarding the choice to mount horizontally, it seems you would need to slant it with the 'electrical end' up IF for some reason you can't keep it perfectly level. (So I stand right, AND corrected, at the same time. ) Best wishes to all.

 

[Freenow54]

I think I actually need to refine my comment, after more careful reading. Regarding the choice to mount horizontally, it seems you would need to slant it with the 'electrical end' up IF for some reason you can't keep it perfectly level. (So I stand right, AND corrected, at the same time. ) Best wishes to all.

Interesting since my geek is mounted with the electrical at the inlet. Per the instructions