Ozonator vs ultraviolet

[bogusmove]

Could anyone tell me what the practical differences between an ozonator and a uv filter is? They both, as far as I can see, eliminate bacteria / parasites, in slightly different ways... but i'm not clear on which is better, or what the relative pros and cons are. There is alot of info for uv filters but ozonators seem a little more exotic. Thanks.

 

[ste2k3]

I'll move this to the hardware section. its currently past midnight here so I'll explain tomorrow

ste

 

[ste2k3]

If you were going to put one of these on your tank, then i would go for the U.V as it is simply plug and play. it works but using a high wavelength to disrupt the DNA in the cells of the algae/parasites and kills them. an ozonizer simply produces ozone which is toxic. you would need an ozone reactor to work with one of these as you need a safe way to get it absorbed into the water. it is used in marine tanks and it is fed into the skimmer where it is mixed. all the parts which the ozone comes in to contact with must be ozone resistand as it will corrode normal plastic. You really need to know what you are doing with ozone as it can cause huge ammounts of damage to the the tank and owner if used incorrectly.

I would go for a u.v because it is plug and play and there is less chance of doing your self and damage.

ste

 

[bogusmove]

Ahh Okie You scared me enough Hehe! Thanks for the explaination! I had no idea it could be so dangerous!

 

[ste2k3]

its not really that bad, just saying that you need to know exactly whatyour doing otherwise you can harm fish and yourself. Uvs are safe as long as you don't look at them and most models have hosetales so you can't

ste

 

[bogusmove]

you need to know exactly whatyour doing

Well, when it comes to ozonators, I dont

I've read that UV filters have a narrow gap, and i'm wondering, does this introduce any flow rate problems using them inline with the main filter, or is it not an issue?

EDIT: I withdraw this silly "how long is a bit of string" question and will look up flow rate specs on equipment instead