UV Sweeper FAQ
UV Sweeper FAQ – Community Insights
1. What does the UV Sweeper treat and how effective is it?
The UV Sweeper is highly effective against benthic (sand-dwelling) dinoflagellates like Amphidinium and Prorocentrum. It targets these organisms directly on the sandbed, with visible improvements typically seen in 3–7 days of consistent use.
2. Is the UV Sweeper effective for all types of dinoflagellates?
No. It is best suited for sand-dwelling species. For planktonic dinoflagellates like Ostreopsis or Coolia, which float in the water column, an in-line UV sterilizer is more appropriate.
3. How often should I use the UV Sweeper during a dinoflagellate outbreak?
Use the UV Sweeper once daily, thoroughly treating each infected sandbed area. Most users see significant improvement within a week.
4. When is the best time of day to use the UV Sweeper?
Always use the UV Sweeper during peak lighting hours, when dinoflagellates are most active and exposed on the sandbed. Earlier in the light cycle is better than later to ensure maximum effectiveness.
5. What should I do for hard-to-reach areas?
Use magnetic frag racks or risers to lift sandbed corals during treatment. Don’t worry about 100% elimination—most users report that once the majority is treated, the rest often dies off on its own.
6. Can the UV Sweeper be used as a preventative tool?
Yes, but it's not necessary in all tanks. Occasional use once a week or biweekly can help maintain a clean sandbed and deter new blooms—especially in systems with a history of dinoflagellates.
7. Is the UV Sweeper safe to use?
Yes. The UV Sweeper has been used in countless reef tanks and shown to be safe for coral and fish. Avoid prolonged direct exposure to coral. The UVC output does not penetrate beyond the aquarium glass and has been verified with UVC meters. UV safety glasses and full usage instructions are included.
8. Does the UV Sweeper harm beneficial bacteria or microfauna in the sandbed?
No. It only sterilizes the top layer of the sandbed, leaving deeper beneficial bacteria and microfauna largely unaffected. No significant adverse effects have been reported.
9. Can I use the UV Sweeper in an acrylic tank?
No. It is not safe for acrylic tanks due to UV interactions with the material. The device is intended only for use on glass aquariums.
10. How does the UV Sweeper compare to other treatments like silicate dosing or hydrogen peroxide?
Unlike silicate dosing, which can take months to work, the UV Sweeper offers an immediate, targeted solution without altering water chemistry. It also avoids the risks of hydrogen peroxide, which can harm corals and inverts.
11. What if the treatment is taking longer than expected?
If dinoflagellates persist after a week of consistent use, it’s important to investigate underlying causes. Common contributing factors include:
- Bottomed-out nutrients (nitrate/phosphate)
- Excess amino acid dosing
- Chemical treatments
- High iron or severe trace element imbalance
Resolving these root causes will enhance the UV Sweeper’s effectiveness and help prevent recurrence.
It is also very important to use the UV Sweeper during peak lighting hours, when dinoflagellates are most active and exposed on the sandbed. Treating earlier in the peak light cycle is more effective than later.
12. Is the UV Sweeper suitable for new tanks or other algae types?
No. It is not intended for tanks in the “ugly stage”, where diatom blooms are common. Diatoms are a natural part of early tank cycling and should be left alone. The UV Sweeper will not treat diatoms.
It may help reduce cyanobacteria, but it is not a complete solution. For cyano issues, use coral snow (calcium carbonate powder) mixed with tank water and dose with Microbacter Clean twice per week to support clarity and microbial balance.