UV sterilizers are a great way to keep your aquarium water clean and free of harmful bacteria. But, like any other technology, there are both advantages and disadvantages to using a UV sterilizer.
Pros
UV sterilizers are highly effective at eliminating microorganisms present in the water. They require minimal maintenance and are relatively inexpensive to operate.They also have a high inactivation effect on Cryptosporidium and Giardia at a low dose of UV.
Cons
UV sterilizers require electricity to operate, and the UV lamp housing is prone to fouling, which can affect the transmission of ultraviolet light and the sterilization effect. Additionally, UV light can only eliminate microorganisms present in the water, so if the water is cloudy, a pre-filter must be used. Furthermore, UV disinfection does not offer the persistence of other chemicals. Bacterial resurrection phenomenon is also a potential issue with UV sterilizers.Some bacteria, inactivated by UV irradiation, can repair their own damaged tissues with the help of light to achieve the purpose of resuscitating, and other bacteria can exist in the dark (resurrection phenomenon without light).In conclusion, UV sterilizers are an effective way to keep your aquarium water clean and free of harmful bacteria. However, it is important to be aware of the potential drawbacks before investing in one.