Uv "sterailizer"

[mibson]

Im installing a UV steralizer on my tank, do I want it before or after filtration in my canister filter.

 

[bitteraspects]

its best to run it separate from your canister. get either a powerhead or a small pump to run it. UV sterilizers require a much slower flow rate to be effective, and that canister will be too much.

 

[JenCliBee]

Im installing a UV steralizer on my tank, do I want it before or after filtration in my canister filter.

But... to answer your actuall question i think its advised to install after filtration on the outlet pipe.(Not sure if it matters either way)

 

[drobbyb]

Im installing a UV steralizer on my tank, do I want it before or after filtration in my canister filter.

But... to answer your actuall question i think its advised to install after filtration on the outlet pipe.(Not sure if it matters either way)

It is better to install after the filter.

 

[Schmill]

I guess things are different in aquariums then, as these all seem very bizarre replies to me - lol

Before keeping tropicals (this time around) I had a pond. The pumping system on this pumped many more litres per hour than the cannisters of aquarium filters, and yet this had a UV installed and worked very well.
Whilst its true that the water does need to be exposed to the UV for a set amount of time for them to be effective, and therefore there is no point in having the water racing past, you don't neccasarily have to slow the water down. There are various 'routing methods' of passing the water past (also around) the UV tubes to ensure the flow can be fast AND effective.
What this depends on is the power and design of your UV lamp and housing. The UV should give a guidance as to what flowrate it is designed for, and therefore you should be able to pick one to match your flowrate.

Also, (in the pond environment), the UV tended to be fitted on the INLET to the filter, not the exit pipe. Presumably this is because they are primarily used to fight the small alage that causes the 'green water' effect, but it would seem to make sense whatever you are using them for.
Blast the water with UV, then filter out anything that has been killed off, or clumped together by the UV. Connecting the UV on the exit pipe would seem to be a good way of pumping your aquarium / pond full of dead algae spores...