UV Sterilizer Install Questions

[BeanAnimal]

Ive been using rainbow lifeguard for a couple of decades and last 9 years AquaUV and got at least 8-9 months out of each bulb. Lamp life is based on hours and I dont see how start/stop would reduce the life of a bulb that works part time

They are fluorescent tubes. Starting voltage and current is much higher than steady state voltage and is hard on the cathode filaments. Each start hammers the cathodes with thermal shock and sputtering (literal ejection of material) that degrades them. The old rule of thumb was 3 hours of lost lamp life for each start.

 

[Freenow54]

It actually has the opposite effect.
I just installed an aqua twist UV and in the manual in says "We recommend that the UV sterilizer be used in continuous operation for 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Frequent starts and stops may shorten the life of your Lamps.

It to me is not like auto stop on my vehicle which I believe will shorten everything attached to restarting the engine . You are talking 365 cycles if you will, off then 12 hours later on . Everyone has an opinion . To me if you run a UV light Buld continuously it will diminish its effectiveness , as well as its life ie every light bulb is rated in hours of use. Not only that but it would cause the sleeve to have more " film " on it . Which also effects the efficiency of the light , and life. " Just Me "

 

[W31Olds]

It's a lot like short cycling a HVAC System. Compressor life is shorted due to excessive starting. I run my UV's 24/7 except when dosing bacteria or meds.