UV Sterilization Diagrams

This article/post is for diagrams/graphs to further explain how UV Sterilization works in aquariums and ponds.
Diagrams for installation and resources for further information are also provided.

UVC and light wave lengths
(Please click on picture to enlarge)





Micro Organism UV Dose Chart
As rated in uWs/cm2

(click picture to enlarge)
Please note that for algae that the amount of UVC radiation to kill is higher than to "clump" algae for removal by filter. The light blue indicates kill while the dark blue indicates "clumping", which in my tests is often even lower than the graph indicates (often as low as 5000 uWs/cm2)

Synchrotron Radiation Spectrum

From: What is Synchrotron Radiation?

UV lamp Germicidal effectivenessClick to enlarge



UV Installations
Please click pictures below to enlarge

This is a recommended method of installing a UV Sterilizer in conjunction with a high flow rate pump which exceeds the recommended 20-30 gph per watt for a UV Sterilizer to be effective.


This application show a UV Sterilizer in line with a Canister Filter (Via Aqua, Eheim, Fluval, Filstar, etc.). This does NOT have to connect through the bottom of the aquarium, this is only a method I have used for ease of service and aesthetics. The canister filter/UV Sterilizer can be connected in more traditional methods as well such as over the back with hoses/connections that are provided with the canister filter.


For more Marine Aquarium Information, please visit this URL: AQUARIUM SALTWATER BASICS


For most pond applications the UV Sterilizer will need to be on a bypass for a proper flow rate unless used in a pond with a small water pump. This diagram shows to pond installation ideas.





This diagram shows a pond UV Clarifier connection using the bypass.diverter valve common to many fountains and simple aquarium filters.
The Filter pictured here is a Via Aqua BH-2000AD; Small Pond Pump/Filter, although many other pond filters such as the Supreme Pond Master 1000 can be adapted this way as well.


Here is a diagram using an internal filter or power head to install a 5 Watt UV Sterilizer (such as the Terminator, Tetra, etc.).
This diagram shows the application on the front of the aquarium for better viewing, however oyou would add this to the back of the tank for a normal application.

A similar application to the above shows a 5 or 9 Watt UV Sterilizer connected to the back of a Bio Cube Aquarium using the water pump that is sold with this aquarium



For more pond UV installation information as well as excellent general pond information, please visit this URL: A Clear Pond; Pond Information