A fortnight ago, I added a 25w UV Steriliser to my filter setup, and what a difference. Now the water is so clear you only know it's there because of the bubbles and ripples! Also, the number of free-floating bacteria and parasites in the tank should be reduced by 95%.

Has anyone else got a UV unit on their tank, and do you think it's overkill?

i use one. the fish look like they are suspended in air in my tropical tank, which has been up for about six months. the goldie tank is nice and clear but being we are only 8 days in i've not switched on the UV. i'm a believer in them. also in water testing, water changes, carbon media, and changing the cartridges in my filters.

where do u get the uv filters? my local petstores dont carry them.
thanks!!!

here is where i get most of my aquarium supplies.

http://drsfostersmith.com/

that's for the info! i've never been to that site before, it's great!

I have a 25 watt UV sterilizer on my 90ga. tank, and a 9 watt on my 29ga. quarantine tank.

The water in the 90ga. stays so clear that you literally can't tell the tank has water in it.

Neither tank has ever had a problem with parasites. I wouldn't have an aquarium without one.

Rick

Dave, where did you get your UV from and if you don't mind me asking, how much was it? It's an idea I've toyed with for a long time, but never really got around to seriously investigating. One other question: does it help keep algae down?!

dave,

they really do work a charm, dont they? ive got a 9 watt on my 55 gallon and it just plain rocks!

emma, as far as free-floating algae goes, since i added my uv, theres absolutely none to speak of.

Thanks all - the results I have had are really stunning.

Emma, the unit I use is a Vecton UV25. Make sure you shop around a little, as they vary massively in price. My LFS sell the unit for £127. However, I got mine for £78 online(!!). PM me if you want the address, as I won't do the advertising bit on here!

I love my UV thing, It is an amazing thing, the only thing I don't like is the price on the replacement bulbs, and you should replace them every 6 months

I'm green with envy! No algae?! I couldn't even imagine. I went to that website and even the ones on clearance were more that I want to spend right now. Maybe someday....maybe the next gift exchange?