Filter Flow Rate

[bry1105]

I know this is somewhat of an issue that can be debated forever, but Ive been researching filter flow rates. Ive found answers for cycling the total volume anywhere from 4-10 times per hour. Thats quite a large range. Whats the minimum? Whats prefered? Whats best? Ive got a 46 gallon bowfront, which Im guessing actually holds 40.

The issue I have is: currently I have a c-360 canister filter on it (cycling about 9 times per hour) which is plenty fast flow rate. But 360gph is WAY too fast for a UV sterilizer Id like to hook up. Should I replace the c-360 with a c-220? 220gph would work better for the sterilizer, but Id also be reducing the cycle rate from 9 per hour to 5.

Is it worth losing 4 cycles per hour to add a sterilizer? What would you do?

 

[Mr. Limpet]

I was looking at UV too and didn't want to lose flow rate on my filter either. Here's one that is an intank unit and controls its own flow so it actually works to kill algae, plus it's a power head to boot .

http://www.petco.com/product/114522...V-Sterilizer-with-Power-Head.aspx?CoreCat=SBB

 

[BigJim]

I think the extra filtration is worth more than any UV sterilizer.

 

[bry1105]

I think the extra filtration is worth more than any UV sterilizer.

I agree. Ive decided not to downgrade my filter. If I decide to get a sterilizer I'll just get one powerful enough to handle 360gph, such as the 36 watt Coralife Turbo Twist.