How to Install a Coralife Turbo-Twist 6X 18 Watt UV Aquarium Sterilizer
Ultraviolet (UV) light is a great tool for killing microorganism. On this premise, some aquariums employ UV sterilizers to control algae, bacteria, and viruses. The Coralife Turbo-Twist 6X Watt UV Aquarium Sterilizer is one such unit. This unit features a spiraling baffle which increases the time water spends in contact with the UV light. The unit is not self-powered, and does require some slightly difficult assembly. However, assembling the unit is not insurmountable with some focus.
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Things You'll Need
- Vinyl tubing, length varies depending on aquarium/setup
- Water pump, >121 GPH or >253
Instructions
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1
Disconnect the power supply until the unit is fully assembled. UV light is dangerous if used incorrectly.
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2
Determine your set-up and cut vinyl tubing accordingly. Remember, your water pump must be pushing water into the inlet of the UV sterilizer, not pulling it out of the outlet.
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3
Position the inlets. A red safelock can be snapped open and the top of the unit can be rotated. With this, you can change the position of the inlet and outlet if you need them on the same or opposite sides.
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4
Install mounting brackets. This step is optional, depending on how you are mounting the unit and if you are mounting it to the tank directly or to a sump. To install the bracket, tighten the clamp onto the aquarium or the sump, attach the snap-on bracket to the main unit, and slide both halves of the bracket together. Adjust if needed.
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5
Install the UV bulb. First, unscrew the threaded cap at the top of the unit. Then, snap the bulb into place. It will click if you did this right, it will make an audible click when you get the bulb in place. Then, screw the threaded cap back into place.
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Attach the hoses. First, place an O-ring on the inlet and outlet barbs. Then, place the hose lock nuts around the inlet and outlet connections, then slide the respective pieces of tubing over the barb. Tighten the nuts by turning them counter-clockwise.
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Activate your pump. Once water is moving through the unit, you can turn it on safely.
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Tips & Warnings
For algae control, use a pump capable of an output of 121 gallons-per-hour.
For bacterial control, use a pump capable of an output of at least 253 GPH.
Every part of this unit that can be unscrewed has an O-ring. Be mindful of these and always make sure they are in place. They prevent leaking and flooding.
Always make sure the unit is held in place securely. If you are installing it upright, use the bracket. If installing it sideways, use screws to hold it in place.
Do not activate the unit when it is open. UV light can cause burns and blindness in humans.
Always activate the water pump, then the UV light. Running the unit dry can cause it to overheat and cause a fire.
Always use a drip loop on the power supply.
Disconnect the unit immediately if you smell ozone or a burning smell.
References
Resources
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