Why not run UV Sterilizer at low flow 24/7?

[Rubblereefer]

Basically the answer to your question is that certain algae, dinos, etc can reproduce so fast that you need the higher flow rate to put a dent in them.

 

[NJBillyV]

This has been a great discussion, thanks everyone I've learned a lot. I've decided to go with the Odyssea.

I'm going to run it through my return pump for now and see how that goes. My tank currently has no issues so I hope I won't have to modify the speed.

Question: If I did go with a separate pump, and pumped it out of the DT then back into the DT, how would I plumb it? The pump itself can't sit in my DT, so I'll have to use a tube to pump out and them back in. So where does the pump go, over the sump just in case??

 

[Sarcazian]

Run mine 24/7. Never had problem

I just started a 24/7 regiment as of 2 months ago. No issues so far, but I also do 30-50% WC a week using IO reef crystals. It supposedly includes vitamins, so assuming these are in the list it may be why - or 2 months is not long enough for negative impacts.

Granted, I am running a cheap-ish Green Machine 9W system with very low flow rates. No impact to temp at all - solid 78-79 degrees depending on day/night cycle.

 

[Thaxxx]

If you want to educate yourself on UV Sterilization lots of reading here.....
https://www.americanaquariumproducts.com/AquariumUVSterilization.html

 

[NJBillyV]

If you want to educate yourself on UV Sterilization lots of reading here.....

Wow, that's certainly comprehensive, thanks for the link.