You will hear a lot of terminology concerning a UV filter. It can be called an ultra violet light, UV clarifier, UV sterilizer, UV or UV light. There are a lot of names for such a small piece of equipment. Even though it is a small piece of equipment it is extremely important to the clarity of your waterfall pond. Let's discuss what the pond UV light's function is and then we will discuss the function of the pond filter.
• The UV filter is not placed directly into the water. The UV light is placed into a long quartz sleeve which protects the bulb from the water. As the water, full of algae, passes by the UV light it sterilizes the algae. The cell wall is destroyed and the algae clump together. Since algae are so microscopic the filter is unable to catch it without a UV. Once the algae clump together the filter can do a good job of removing the algae. Remember, a UV light can only sterilize and damage what flows by it. The string algae on the pond walls are not impacted.
• The pond filter is responsible for catching the debris, waste and other particles in the water that are large enough to catch. Algae are microscopic and flow right by the pond filter.
You will read about other ways to clear up your pond water. Recommendations include a good filtration system, adding beneficial bacteria, cleaning your pond, adding plants to create shade, or adding "Flocculants" to help the algae clump together. All of these help but none of them will clear the water like a UV filter.
There are a few things to remember about using UV filters. Review the following list for best results.
• Each season, preferably spring, you should change the UV light (not the sleeve) to ensure it is most effective against the algae during the summer when algae is at its worst. If you have a long winter season you may be able to change your bulb every other year.
• When changing the bulb be careful since they are very fragile. If you touch the bulb with your hands you will need to wipe it clean. The oils from your skin could cause the bulb to overheat and that would shorten the life of your bulb.
• Make sure the quartz sleeve is clean. Any dirt on the surface limits the radiation from the UV light.
• Check the wattage of your light. It must be the correct size to handle your pond. The water volume, number of fish and the amount of time the pond is exposed to the sunlight play a part in determining the wattage.
Most importantly the UV light is harmful to algae but will not harm your fish! The UV is the same as we receive from the sun but not the same power. I would not recommend looking directly at the UV light since the rays are harmful. Why take any chances of hurting your eyes?
I have used a UV filter since I first installed my waterfall pond. It has done a fantastic job! The only recommendation that I would make is to remove it from the pond for the winter so that there is no chance of freezing and breaking. Be sure to store it in a safe place for the winter because it is very fragile. Enjoy your clean pond and fish!
Vickie Talley
Knight Enterprises LLC
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