How Does the API Quick Start UV Sterolizer Treat Waste and Other Microorganisms?

The API Quick Start UV is a simple UV sterilization method developed to kill bacteria and other microbial organisms using ultraviolet light. It is meant for use in combination with other sanitizer methods for applications where sanitation is critical. This sanitizer can be added directly to a clean tank to quickly jump-start the chemical filtration process without the use of additional organisms. Since the product is ultraviolet in nature, a thorough cleaning process using standard tap water must be completed before use, otherwise, any contamination present will be passed over the sterilizer during the UV treatment. Other sterilization processes such as carbon dioxide laser, ozone, and UV dye are recommended for use where greater sanitization is desired.

The sterilization cycle of the API Quick Start UV begins with the addition of anhydrous sodium phosphate (HSP) to the tank with a pump supply via a pressure washer. The pump supply is designed to provide constant, reliable delivery of sodium phosphate so that no moisture is present when it passes through the sterilizing sanitizer. Once anhydride is added to the tank, the HSP is converted into sodium nitrite with the aid of an active ingredient, typically monochloramine sulfate or NaNO2. The mixing of the two chemicals creates a reaction that produces nitrite. The nitrite is then added to the water conditioner tank along with other microorganisms including bacteria and yeast.

The cycle stops when all the microorganisms are safely dispersed throughout the tank. When the sanitizer is removed from the aquarium, additional ammonia should be added to the tank to complete the nitrogen cycle. Ammonia has been shown to produce nitrosamines, which are known to produce additional toxic ammonia in an environment where the already high levels of ammonia are still high. Regular removal of the API Quick Start UV sanitizer and an occasional refill of the aquarium water conditioner should keep your fish free of excessive nitrites, other potentially toxic bacteria, and other waste products that might harm your aquarium. If you continue to use the API Quick Start product, you should also practice proper water conditioners that dechlorinate the water before adding additional sanitizers.