CustomSeaLife Double Helix UV

[RCSALTY]

Hi,

I am a newbie to this forum, so I hope that I am posting my question correctly.

I have been using a CustomSeaLife 9 watt Double Helix UV on my 29 gal live rock/fish/invertebrate tank for about 1 year. Recently, I opened up the sterilizer casing to check on the bulb inside. I was shocked to find quite a bit of what looked like "soot" inside. I contacted Customer Service and they said they were aware of the problem. They said that the UV light is reacting with the internal materials (ie: reflector). Upon further investigation I noticed that all of the metallic parts inside (clamps, screws, baseplate, & reflector) appeared to be severely deteriorated and that the plastic tubing had a white haze on it.

Have any of you guys had this problem? What did you do about it?

Customer service said I could send it back, but it didn't sound like I was going to get a replacement -- only that they were going to check it and send it back to me.

What do you think? Thanks.

 

[michealprater]

Welcome to AA! I dont know what to do, but this is a common problem with double helix from what I hear.

 

[fishfreek]

I think Hara had a simular problem with her double helix.

 

[RCSALTY]

Double Helix UV - update

Just to let you guys know, I spoke to Custom Sea Life again today and mentioned my displeasure with the current condition of my UV and they said they would replace it. I have to pay for shipping back to them and they take care of the rest. Looks like they have added some improvements to the original design.

I will let you all know how it turns out. Take care.