do i need a uv sterilizer?

[joel618]

Im buying a canister filter and I have the option to get the uv sterilizer model for $10 more. Worth the money? What does it really do for me? Its going on a fw mbuna tank.

 

[pleechford]

Yes!! Defintely spend the extra 10 bucks. It will keep your water crystal clear. I just had a horrible green algae bloom and my water looked like pea soup. I bought a uv and my water was crystal clear in a week. I hear it is also for killing disease and waterborne bacteria (not the good bacteria). I would definitely spend the extra few dollars IMO.

 

[kenbob]

It is good to have when you need it. I have on in my canister filter (Aquatop 400UV)

 

[Jlsardina]

A UV sterilizer can kill both good and bad. There's a huge debate on them. Personally though- I say go for it.

 

[pleechford]

A UV sterilizer can kill both good and bad. There's a huge debate on them. Personally though- I say go for it.

I don't know how it could kill the good because good bacteria is attached to substrate, filter media, etc. it does not get exposed to the uv light.