How do UV sterilizers work?
(continued) • Temperature: UV light is best produced at temperatures of 104-110°F; cooler temperatures will result in less output. Quartz sleeves help to insulate the bulb from the cooler aquarium water and thus maintain a higher UV output. Killing Dose of UV light* (Microwatt seconds per square centimeter) Viruses = 15,000 Bacteria = 15,000 — 30,000 Algae = 22,000 — 30,000 Fungi = 45,000 Protozoa = 90,000 * Note: These are generalities; some specific organisms in these groups may require more or less of a dose than indicated. In which types of systems should UV sterilizers be used and what are the benefits? A UV sterilizer may be used in any aquarium, however, in smaller aquariums (less than 24 gallons), the cost of the unit may make it impractical. UV sterilizers are most helpful in multiple tank systems that share a common filter. In a single tank system, they are beneficial in controlling the spread of an infectious disease if one occurs. This is especially true in heavily stocked
