Algae bloom problem UV Sterilizer help

[MetalHeadX343]

I have a 46 gallon bowfront aquarium and I don't know what wattage of uv sterilizer to buy. I've been fighting an algae bloom for 5 months now it was so bad about 4 months ago you couldn't even see inside the tank. I completely blocked off the light in the tank with solar curtains and left the tank light off for weeks which I hate to do because I know it stresses out fish but all that's in there right now is a common pleco and I don't think it bothers it to much. I have a freshwater aquarium and no sump tank to speak of so what kind of sterilizer can I buy that's inside the aquarium and what's the specific name for those types. If someone could send me a link to a good sterilizer that's not that big that would be very helpful.

P.S. also I know virtually nothing about UV sterilizers so at the very least some info would be very much appreciated thank you

 

[Typow07]

I've had the same problem with my 55 gallon for at least 3 months. It started off crystal clear, than it went so green I could not see halfway into the tank! I have done water changes, new curtains and even blocked light to the aquarium for 3 days straight, but no luck. So I took the jump and bought a 24 watt uv light that is a in tank light, flows over the light twice and has a built in pump. Three things you definitely want to look for.

 

[JLH-l3ioCub3]

Have you tested your water? What are your results?
What kind of filtration are you using?

 

[tonedogz]

UV Sterilizers, Biological/ Mechanical Filters, and Pumps by Aqua Ultraviolet | aquaultraviolet.com