Free-floating algae, parasites, and pathogens circulate through the water column even in a well-filtered tank, since mechanical and biological filtration alone doesn't remove them. The Dymax UV-FLO 5W sterilizer clears the water of free-floating microorganisms as it passes through, and the UV Tube 5W keeps it working once the bulb ages out.
Why UV Sterilization Helps
Standard filtration removes particles and processes waste, but it doesn't kill free-floating algae cells, parasites, or bacteria suspended in the water column. A UV sterilizer exposes passing water to germicidal UV light, clearing green water and reducing pathogen load that mechanical and biological filtration can't touch.
Choosing a Diameter
- UV-FLO 5W (12/16mm) — fits standard tubing on most nano and small-to-mid canister setups.
- UV-FLO 5W (16/22mm) — fits the wider-diameter tubing common on larger canister filter setups.
Don't Forget the Bulb
UV sterilizer bulbs lose effectiveness well before they visibly burn out — running an old bulb means the sterilizer keeps spinning without actually sterilizing anything. The Dymax UV Tube 5W is the replacement bulb for the UV-FLO, recommended on a regular replacement schedule (typically every 6–12 months) regardless of whether the old bulb still lights up.
The Dymax UV-FLO 5W and UV Tube 5W are available at Marine Concept Supply — order online or pick up at our shop in Wheeling, IL. Shop UV-FLO 12/16mm, UV-FLO 16/22mm, or Replacement UV Tube, and browse more UV sterilizers.
