If you want to take care of fishes as your pet, you might be wondering what essential things you must consider when taking care of them properly. First and foremost, you must put up an aquarium in your home and ensure that you have the necessary accessories or equipment like best UV sterilizer freshwater aquarium to manage it properly.
Some aquarists also suggest using UV sterilizer to ensure that your aquarium remains adequately cleaned and fishes can live longer without being infected by diseases.
If you're interested to know more about the best UV sterilizer freshwater aquarium, this article will surely give you all the information you need to know to ensure that your pets will be protected.
The Best UV Sterilizer Freshwater Aquarium Reviews
The market is saturated with available UV sterilizers that come in different features and advantages. It is no wonder if you get overwhelmed when choosing what is best for your aquariums.
Quick Comparison Of Top 3 Best UV Sterilizer Freshwater Aquarium
best Pick
AA Aquarium Green Killing Machine Internal UV Sterilizer
RUNNER UP
Aqua UV 15 watt Advantage 2000 Hang On UV Sterilizer
3rd best
AQUA ULTRAVIOLET 25 Watt UV Sterilizer
Overall BEST PICK
This sterilizer is a helpful equipment that provides protection from possible disease-causing agents on your tank or aquarium. It uses an advanced Ultraviolet system (254 nm wave length) to eliminate harmful bacteria and algae from your tank without affecting the habitat of your fishes.
You will also be satisfied using the product since it can also improve the water quality, making the water clear and safe for your beloved pets. The sterilizer comes with a sealed UV filtration system, bulb assembly, and a complete filtration pump with 220-liter capacity.
There is no trouble in installing it since you can do it quickly and easily by following the manual given. The equipment also has a low energy requirement of about 9 watts, which is a safe level for child usage.
Pros
Cons
Why We Like It:
This sterilizer is an excellent equipment if you are just starting to use an aquarium. You can get your money's worth since it has excellent features such as the sealed LED bulbs and the control box. You will also be surprised by its easy installation, which is perfect for newbies which is why we considered it as the best UV sterilizer freshwater aquarium.
Our Verdict
You should definitely try this sterilizer for your aquarium. It comes with exceptional features and is effective in cleaning the water of your tank.
runner up best pick
Are you one of those that have experienced discoloration of water in their aquarium even if they just recently changed waters? Chances are, you might be experiencing increased algae growth in your tank.
The growth of algae and other microorganisms in your aquarium can be harmful to your fishes as it affects the water quality and competes for space and food inside the tank.
Hence, you must look for an effective sterilizer that can aid in cleaning water and killing these harmful organisms in your tank.
The sterilizer performs excellently in small spaces such as ponds, aquariums, and a 75-gallon reef tank. With its slim design, it does not block sunlight penetration and does not take up so much space when you put it in your tank.
You can also be assured that its weight will not put too much pressure on your tank, preventing possible risk for breakage. This sterilizer ensures that the water quality inside your tank will be thoroughly clean after five days.
Pros
Cons
Why We Like It:
This UV Sterilizer is an excellent addition to your aquarium needs, especially if you have a problem with water discoloration.
Our Verdict
It is perfect for people with small aquariums. The size of the sterilizer is also crucial because it will not crowd the fishes once installed in the tank.
For aquarists with bigger aquariums, this sterilizer can provide that sterilizing strength that you need. It can accommodate a freshwater tank with a water capacity of 1,200 gallons and 150 gallons for saltwater tanks.
You must ensure that the capacity of your sterilizer can accommodate the water volume of your tank. It is crucial to guarantee that your tank or aquariums will be cleaned properly for the fish survival. Fortunately, this sterilizer can accommodate tanks with large volume easily.
The UV lamp is also durable and promised to last for 14 months, so it can save you money compared to other sterilizers. It is also user friendly, and installation is easy due to its inline plumbing. You will be impressed by its durability and compatibility, which makes it the best UV sterilizer freshwater for aquarium.
Pros
Cons
Why We Like It:
What sets this product apart from other sterilizers in the market is that it is very easy to install. It is user friendly, which is perfect for beginners. The lamp of the sterilizer is also long-lasting, thus suitable for practical aquarists.
Our Verdict
If you have large tanks for your fishes, it is highly suggested that you use this sterilizer to make your cleaning more effective and practical.
This UV sterilizer boasts its ability to kill bacteria, viruses, protozoans, and other pathogens that may harm your beloved fishes. The effectiveness of the sterilizers lies with the strength of its UV lamps which can disrupt the targeted RNA/DNA of pathogens.
Due to its ability to kill waterborne pathogens, it can be used for both freshwater and saltwater systems.
You can install the system horizontally or vertically, but its result would be better if it's directly placed after the filtration set-up of your tank. It can improve water clarity after 7-10 days of installation, but a shorter duration is needed for aquariums with pre-installed filtration set-up.
Pros
Cons
Why We Like It:
If you're looking for a UV sterilizer that focuses on killing waterborne pathogens, then this equipment is what you're looking for. The germicidal ray from its lamp ensures that all single-celled microorganisms will be killed, and your beloved pets will be protected.
Our Verdict
If you already have a filtration system installed for your aquarium, this sterilizer is the perfect addition to your aquarium accessories.It can ensure that the water quality inside your tank will be suitable for fishes, and the environment is germ-free for your beloved pet.
If you are searching for an excellent aquarium UV sterilizer that can be used for both saltwater and freshwater, then this is the right one for you. It is best used in aquarium with a capacity of 250 gallons. The sterilizer is designed to get rid of floating microorganisms like parasites, algae, and bacteria.
You can also easily mount the sterilizer on the side portion of the aquarium. If you already have a pump that has a flow rate of 300 to 900 gallons, then you can connect the sterilizer at the end portion of the pump to ensure that your water is always clear and germ-free.
It is designed with a unique twisted flow model that directs the flow of the water evenly in the sterilizer. The UV light is also encased in a quartz glass to protect it from water or debris in the aquarium.
The equipment is sturdy and easy to use and install. It is one of the best sterilizers for freshwater aquariums out there, and the lamp is durable and can surely last long.
Pros
Cons
Why We Like It:
The sterilizer has excellent features that you will definitely like. It can be used for saltwater and freshwater aquariums. Aside from that, it can clean up to 250 gallons of water, so it is a great buy.
Our Verdict
With its twist flow design, the water will be evenly cleaned whether you have saltwater or freshwater in your aquarium. It has a big capacity, and the product itself is sturdy and long-lasting.
This sterilizer will save your pets from the unwanted microorganisms in your aquarium. It can guarantee that the water quality from your tank will be clear and safe for your fishes. However, make sure that you follow the manual instruction to maximize the use of the products.
You must also ensure that the UV light will not come in contact with your pets. It would be best to place the light in a sump to separate it from the fishes. If you do not have an available sump, then you can try to encase the UV lamp with a plastic board with an ample opening where water can enter for cleaning.
It is preferable to turn on the light at least 3 to 4 hours every 2 to 4 days but you can increase the time of usage if you think that the water quality has no improvement.
Remember that algae accumulate depending on how many fishes you have and the temperature in the tank. It's better to check and study it to set the appropriate schedule for using the UV lamp.
Pros
Cons
Why We Like It:
This reliable sterilizer will help stop all floating microorganisms from reproducing in the water, making the tank a safe environment for your fishes.
Our Verdict
If you have a problem with the accumulated algae in your fish tanks, swimming pool, and ponds, then this is the right stuff for you. You just have to ensure that you follow the instruction from the manual to maximize your usage.
If you’re worried about the possible infections spreading on your tank. Fret no more. This sterilizer is equipped with potent UV light which can kill bacteria, parasites and unwanted algae in your aquariums. It also guarantees to control the spread of disease by stopping the ability of pathogens to reproduce in the tank.
The sterilizer is safe to use in tanks with 25 gallons of water capacity, and it's also very easy to install. Plus, the product comes with an optimal bulb that can last up to 10 months and a sponge to facilitate filtration.
Pros
Cons
Why We Like It:
This innovative UV sterilizer will help you stop the propagation of microorganisms in your tanks. It will make the water clean and can prevent spread of disease in your aquariums.
Our Verdict
You will never go wrong with this sterilizer because it will help you in getting rid of those unwanted parasites and bacteria. It will make your tanks look clean and clear all the time without getting any problem in your aquarium.
The equipment works very well in removing microorganisms that make your water green and murky. It is equipped with an internal step design that makes the water go back and forth across the sterilizer,allowing longer contact time for increased cleaning strength.
The flat and slim design of the product allows you the option to hang it in your tank or have it standing using the molded base design.Because of its flexible option for installing, you will not have a hard time putting it together with other accessories in your tank.
Pros
Cons
Why We Like It:
This model does its best in killing all floating algae and parasites in the water using its UV light. It directs the flow of the water to go back and forth to kill the bacteria in your tanks and aquariums efficiently.
Our Verdict
This sterilizer is one of the best UV sterilizers in the market today. It will help you clear up your aquarium and tanks from microorganisms that keep your water unclean and green.
If you want a versatile sterilizer that you can use in saltwater, freshwater, and ponds, then you should get this equipment. It is an ideal sterilizer for a variety of tanks for smaller fishes with a capacity of 75 gallons.
You don't need to worry about buying pumps because it already comes with a pumping system that can move up to 132 gallons per hour. It also has a sponge to get rid of any debris that may impede light transmittance.
Aside from that, the sterilizer has a flexible installation option, you can put it either horizontally or vertically depending on your needs. The product is easy to install since it utilizes suction cups where you can quickly attach to the aquarium’s interior.
Pros
Cons
Why We Like It:
This product is very flexible since it can be used in saltwater, freshwater tanks, or even ponds. It will surely help you eliminate floating algae and parasites from your aquarium.
Our Verdict
If you have a problem with your tank's parasites, bacteria, and microorganisms that keep coming back, then this product is the right choice for you. It will help you in managing the water in the aquarium or tanks. Also, you will not have a hard time using and installing this sterilizer.
This product is designed to allow a free flow of water in a diagonal direction, which is beneficial for prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays. The zigzag direction of the water flow permits the UV's sanitizing rays to maximize its sterilization at 254 nm.
This sterilizer will ensure that it will be useful in reducing water cloudiness, and the pathogenic organisms will be killed. If you install it, eventually you will agree that it's one of the best UV sterilizers for freshwater aquariums due to its amazing features.
It also includes a 1-2-3 straightforward submersible gathering which does not need additional external pipes or suction container for mounting. The product is fully submersible, and it comes with functional pumps. You will also be notified when the LED light needs replacements using a signal system installed in the product.
Pros
Cons
Why We Like It:
This sterilizer is very easy to install and comes with a free pump and filtration set-up. Its alert system is a great feature that can help you know when to replace your bulb. You will also like the efficiency of the product’s mechanism to maximize the sterilization process.
Our Verdict
With the fantastic features, you will surely be impressed with the product's ability to clean water and protect your fishes. The control system for bulb replacement is also a great catch since it can notify users about bulb replacement.
Factors to Consider When Buying The Best UV Sterilizer Freshwater Aquarium
Different kinds of sterilizers are available in the market, showing various features to give you the best sterilizer out there. Because of that, choosing what is best for your aquarium might be difficult. Here are the things that you should consider when getting your own sterilizer.
Sterilization Level
When getting a UV sterilizer, you need to know that not all sterilizers have equal strength in getting rid of bacteria or even viruses from the water. Some low-priced sterilizers can take away algae in the water but cannot eliminate bacteria that may harm your fish.
When it comes to sterilization level, most UV sterilizer falls between two categories namely:
Level 1
This Type is a strong and cheap UV sterilizer that is designed to eliminate the majority of bacteria and viruses in the water. Many sterilizers that you see are Level 1 because they run effectively and operate in higher flow rates to rapidly clean your whole tank.
Level 2
On the other hand,level 2 sterilizers are more robust in cleaning than level 1 and operate in low flow rates. It is also equipped with more concentrated light that can eliminate hard-to-kill viruses and multicellular parasites that cause fish infections.
The Correct Size
The UV sterilizers that you see in the market have different sizes, and it conforms to the bulb's power and its flow rate. Moreover, the effectiveness of the sterilizers is affected by its UV light wattage and water flow rate. Preferably, you should buy the sterilizer that can easily process the water in your tank after an hour.
How Much UV Light Is Transmitted?
You can measure how much of the UV light is being transmitted into your whole tank. If it is 100%, then it means that there is no hindrance in the UV light sterilization process. However, a lesser amount means that the light is not transmitted correctly.
If the water is dirty or cloudy, then it can affect the transmittance of the UV light. It's better to use filters to take away any debris first, followed by your UV sterilizer to guarantee high light transmittance.
However, if you still have a problem with the transmittance even with the addition of filters, then you need to get a UV light with a higher wattage to ensure that the water will be properly sterilized.
UV Lamps
UV lamps or Ultraviolet lamps use mercury to light up, and it should be at low pressure or medium pressure to work. Majority of the sterilizers you see utilize low-pressure UV lamps because of their high performance.
However, low-pressure UV lamps only work effectively above 20 degrees Celsius or 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Thus, it is crucial to maintain temperature in the tank. You can opt to get a higher wattage UV light or decrease the flow rate if the water in your tanks is cold.
The Diameter of the Sterilizer
If the sterilizer's diameter is higher, then the water will be exposed longer with the UV light. However, keep in mind that increasing diameter would then decrease the chance for water farther from the light source to be clean effectively.
On the other hand, a narrow diameter can sterilize more water, but it entails higher electricity consumption. If you want to have a good quality treatment without a problem in the flow rate, then it is best to go for a diameter of 3 to 5 inches.
Quartz Sleeve
The quartz sleeve is used to add temperature in the UV light. This is important if you have a low-pressure lamp because it works better in higher temp. Also, quartz sleeve almost transmit 100% UV light increasing transmittance in the tank.
If the tank’s temperature is already warm enough for the low-pressure lamp, it's suggested that you do not use a quartz sleeve since it will not be beneficial anymore. The sleeve is also difficult to clean and may hinder contact of water to the sterilization lamp.
Contaminants
Make sure to know first what things you want to remove in your tank before you choose a UV light. After all, the majority of UV lights can quickly kill microorganisms. But if you always have outbreaks, then it is better to get a level 1 or 2 sterilizers to destroy the source.
If the infection persists, you can also adjust the flow rate to make sure that the exposure of the water with the light increases. Add a filter as well to make the transmittance better in the tank. This will make the water cleaner and will stop other microorganisms from spreading.
Frequently Asked Questions For Best UV Sterilizer Freshwater Aquarium
How do you know if the sterilizer fits in your water inlet and outlet port?
To get a reliable estimate, measure the distance between the water inlet and the outlet port. Once you have this, use the measurements to decide how long the sterilizer you need. You may also use additional tubing to reach the ports if the sterilizer is short.
What size and type of UV Sterilizer are suitable for my aquarium?
The type of UV sterilizer for your tank dramatically depends on the size and the contaminants you are going to clean. It is best to evaluate your needs when it comes to the water quality of your aquarium.
Can UV light eliminate bacteria?
Yes, Ultraviolet light produced by the sterilizer has a germicidal ability that can destroy the genetic material of these single-celled organisms. These can also impede the reproduction of pathogens and prevent spread of diseases.
How long does it take for the UV light to eliminate the bacteria?
The average time may take up 10 seconds,but it still depends on how far the water from the UV light source is.
Can it be used in clearing away cloudy water?
Yes, UV sterilizer can sterilize the water, eliminating all algae and floating microorganisms to make the water clean and clear. If the discoloration were not removed, you could add a filtration pump above your UV sterilizer system to increase the transmittance of the UV lamp.
Final Words
In summary, utilizing UV sterilizer is an effective way of maintaining great water quality in you tank and this prevents possible risk of disease infections. However, it is crucial that you make time to look for the best sterilizer for your aquarium.
Research available products in the market and inquire about the products specification before buying. This will ensure that you will not end up buying a UV sterilizer that does not work properly and saves you from wasting your money.