UV Sterilizer Suggestion

[r33fswagg3r]

On my upcoming new build I will be installing a UV sterilizer. I have narrowed it down to either Pentair Smart UV 18w or 25w or Lifegard 25w ProMax. Display will be roughly 50g and sump between 15-20g. I will be using it for Algae Control.

Pentair suggest 18w at 300gph or 25w at 600gph. Lifegard says 25w at 350gph.

Thoughts, opinions, and suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

[blaxsun]

Between the two choices, I'd go with the Pentair. Are you plumbing it in directly to your return or will you be running a separate pump?

 

[r33fswagg3r]

Between the two choices, I'd go with the Pentair. Are you plumbing it in directly to your return or will you be running a separate pump?

I would like to just plumb it in line with the return to display. Pentair says I can get away with the 18w model at 300gph but they also say if I jump to the 25w then I need to shoot for 600gph with is 10x turnover for display. Price is never an issue, it’s the size of the unit that jumps from 22” to 29” respectively.

 

[blaxsun]

You'll lose a bit of flow plumbing it directly, but it will also be a lot more effective.

 

[r33fswagg3r]

You'll lose a bit of flow plumbing it directly, but it will also be a lot more effective.

Think I could get away with the 18w version?

 

[blaxsun]

Think I could get away with the 18w version?

Maybe - it depends on the size (total volume) of your tank.

 

[kados]

In my rotation of tanks over the years I've had the 18w Pentair on a 90g and will be fine for the total water volume you stated. I have a 25w now on a bigger that I'm in the process of upgrading to a 50w. Great units. Good luck!