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miata
10-01-2008, 11:34 PM
Can anyone recommend or comment on a UV Sterilizer with a built in pump (sized gph to be compatible with the uv lamp)? I know I can buy the uv sterilizer and add a pump or power head to it but would rather buy one the mfg. has put together for a proper flow rate for the lamp wattage. I cannot do an inline as I have hob filters which are working great for me.
tks.

dan3949
10-03-2008, 12:00 AM
I recently purchased the PetSmart in-tank UV sterilizer. It was very inexpensive and just sits in your tank (pump is included). After 7 days of operation, there was a very definite improvement in water clarity (I was getting a slight green haze in the water, but, the unit removed it). My initial impression is positive. I have the large unit (24W, $59) installed in a new (10 week old), lightly-planted 125 gallon tank.

My research in several forums prior to purchasing revealed the following:
Most folks liked the unit.
Almost all reviews/comments were positive.
It is not as good as a "stand-alone", name-brand UV sterilizer of the same wattage. Yet, is 1/2 the price and does not require a external loop with a feed pump in the tank.
For smaller tanks, the footprint/look in your tank could be an issue.
It is much better than the cheap eBay systems.