planted tank adding uv sterilizer yes or no

[oldon]

Hi guys as the heading asks. Yes or no. Do any of you have experience with planted tanks and uv. Any advice gladly accepted. Pros and cons.

 

[Ilminded]

I would also like to know because I'm looking at a canister filter that has one with it....

 

[Rivercats]

I run a UV on my 220g heavily planted and have no issues running it in relation to the tank itself. It's main use is to kill free floating algae, bacteria, and parasites that pass through the light in the filter. It can help keep water crystal clear. You do have to shut them off if dosing med tho but other than that I have no issue with them. You will have to do periodic maintenance such as replacing the bulb yearly and cleaning the tube of any detris buildup so it doesn't lessen the amount of UV light. It's not a necessary piece of equipment IMO but if your having bacterial bloom problems with constant prolonged cloudy water or an algae bloom they are very handy.