Rainbow Lifegard Ultraviolet Sterilizer (Vertical)
The radiation from ultraviolet light at 2537 angstroms provided inside the Lifegard Ultraviolet Sterilizer exerts a lethal effect on micro-organisms. UV light alters genetic material within the cells, which interrupts respiration and reproduction.UV light, when used properly, is extremely beneficial in destroying disease causing pathogens as they pass through the unit.UV sterilization is an effective method of disease control. Four major factors affect the percent kill of free-floating micro-organisms by UV radiation:size of organismsradiation levelthe extent to which UV rays penetrate the water andcontact time in which the micro-organism is exposed to the UV radiation.The beneficial nitrifying bacteria in your biological filter will not be affected by the ultraviolet radiation due to their sessile nature. These beneficial bacteria adhere to all types of surfaces and are not free to pass through the sterilizer.Recirculate pond water through the Lifegard Ultraviolet Sterilizer for effective control of free floating algae, enabling you to see your fish and plants in crystal clear water, as well as controlling transmission of disease from one fish to another.Pure hard quartz material in the bulb dramatically increases UV output 35% compared to other conventional bulbs of equal wattage. Pure quartz material resists solarization and improves the longevity of the bulb.Unique test tube style pure quartz sleeve isolates the bulb from water contact preventing thermal shock, broken glass and mercury contamination of the aquarium. This quartz sleeve isolates the bulb to provide an optimal bulb operating temperature of 100 degrees (F). This higher bulb temperature increases UV output an additional 35% over conventional units without sleeves.Bulb changing is the easiest in the industry. Simply slide the old bulb out and slide the new bulb in. No need to shut down the filter system or turn off the pump. Bulb and ballast connect together with a single 4-pin connector. UV radiation levels can be increased by slowing down the flow rate or increasing the total wattage in the system. UV sterilization is most effective when used as the final stage of the filtration system.The modular design of the Lifegard Sterilizer allow it to easily added to an existing Lifegard system. In addition, the unit can also be installed on the outlet side of most canister filters. In every case, the sterilizer is most effective in clear, filtered water and should be installed as the final stage in your filtration system.