UV Sterilizers

The alternatives

Other contenders

• Fluval UVC In-Line Clarifier

  For an in-line clarifier, choose the Fluval UVC In-Line Clarifier, rated for aquariums up to 400 litres.³⁴

• Innovative Marine AUQA Shield Universal UV Reactor

  For a drop-in unit with its own pump, choose the AUQA Shield Universal; it avoids buying a separate pump for the UV unit.⁵

• TMC Vecton 600

  For a vertical in-line connection from the sump, choose the TMC Vecton 600 with its G25T8 lamp.¹⁵¹⁶

Buying advice

• Choose the Lifegard Pro-MAX 25 W Standard for an in-line UV installation with room for its 3 inch housing.²⁹
• Check lamp servicing before buying: the Fluval unit’s 3 watt bulb cannot be replaced, so an expired bulb means replacing the unit.⁴
• Choose flow settings for the intended treatment and installation; lamp wattage alone does not establish what the unit can treat.¹⁴⁵
• Check the housing diameter before choosing a larger Pro-MAX: both the 90 W and 120 W units come in 3 inch and 5 inch bodies.^11121314

For clearing green water

For an in-line clarifier, choose the Fluval UVC In-Line Clarifier and check its aquarium rating against your setup.³⁴

• Fluval UVC In-Line Clarifier

For all-in-one tanks and sump chambers

Choose the AUQA Shield Universal when you need a drop-in unit with an included pump and have space for it in the chamber.⁵

• Innovative Marine AUQA Shield Universal UV Reactor
• Innovative Marine AUQA Shield UV Sterilizer 9W
• Innovative Marine AUQA Shield UV Sterilizer 11W

How they compare

Scroll the table to see every product and specification.