How to maintain your UV Sterilizer

Keeping your UltraViolet Sterilizer in good working condition is a fairly simple matter. You should ensure that the bulb is replaced on a regular basis and also clean both the quartz sleeve (if possible) and the powerhead or water pump that you use to move water through the UV Sterilizer. If you over sized your UV Sterilizer, your bulb should be good for approximately 10 months under continual use. If you didn't oversize your Sterilizer and it is only rated for the volume of water that you have, you should consider changing it more often since the quality of the UV light being emitting declines during the lifetime of the bulb. In these circumstances some manufacturers recommend replacing the bulb every six months. The bulb will usually light well past these time frames but the quality of the UV being produced is of little use.

When you replace the UV bulb you should also take the opportunity to clean the quartz sleeve if it is possible to do so. Many UV Sterilizers will allow you to access the quartz sleeve so it can be cleaned or replaced but some do not. If you can access the quartz sleeve take the time to clean it using an acetone based product to remove any scum and other deposits but be careful as the quartz sleeve is both fragile and expensive to replace. A clean quartz sleeve will allow more UV light to pass through it. You should also take the time to clean the powerhead or water pump with a mixed of water and vinegar to ensure that it continues to function properly. If the pump fails your UV bulb may over heat and result in it failing too.

Follow these simple maintenance procedures to get the most out of your UV Sterilizer.