Equipment Review and Discussion :: UV filter?

[Cramer]

I'm currently running a 55-gallon tank with a Fluval 405, which is rated at double, so it's doing an outstanding job. I like extreme water displacement in my tanks and ponds, where the water is constantly in a state of being moved around and circulated in the filter...
That said, I'm thinking of adding a second filter, to just run as a biological and chemical, that has an integrated UV feature. I'm thinking, the UV will help kill bacteria and reduce likelyness of disease and infection. I have UV experience with my pond, so I know what it's about.

Do you think this would be a benefitial upgrade? I never have algae problems and would dedicate one entire filter to biological, to make up for the free floating benefitial bacteria which will be killed. So, as long as there are no 'down-sides' especially concerning the turtles health, it's a good idea, no?

[steve]

If your water quality is good and your turts are healthy, you can skip it. I've never heard that it was harmful to any type of turtle, so it should be OK to use and I plan to use one in the future.

[Cramer]

Yeah, they've always been top health, but I think as they get bigger and I get busier, it'll be a good investment on not having to worry as much. Not only about bacteria and flukes riding feeder fish, but ecoli from their poop. Also, even though I keep purell by the tank and am good about washing my hands, I'll rest assured knowing the water that splashed in my eye or mouth has been sterilized. (I really have to remember to keep my mouth closed while working in the tank!)
thanks!

[Cramer]

Okay, I just ordered this filter with an integrated UV sterilizer.
http://www.jbjlighting.com/prod_reaction.html

We'll see how it does. (btw, I will be using it along with my 405 in a 55g tank.)