Uv

[MikesReef]

I have a aqua ultraviolet 57 watt uv on my system. How often should one change uv bulb?
I have about 500 gallons total water. I believe the 57 is rated for 350 gallons
Does anyone know if this can be stepped up without buying another unit? Is there an expansion kit to increase uv? I thought I read this is possible

 

[lefkonj]

I have been told that UV bulbs are good for only 1 year, then their effectiveness decreases rapidly. I am not sure about the upgrade part.

 

[curt]

Back when I used them they needed to be changed every year. Not sure about an expansion kit.

 

[kschweer]

Uv bulbs need to be changed at least once per year, every 6-8 months would be best. The effectiveness of the bulb starts to diminish from the time it is first turned on. A quality bulb is recommended because there are quite a few cheaper brands out there now. I do not think that there is an "expansion" for them. This is because the higher watt bulbs are usually larger.

 

[kschweer]

With uv sterilizers you also need to make sure that the flow rate through the uv is set to the manufacturers guideline or slower. If you are passing too much water through the uv it is pretty much ineffective.

 

[NJ Reef Farm]

you could buy another uv and connect them
another 25 watt one should work for your water volume