Pond Products

UV Clarifiers - Your Questions Answered

Can a Pond Clear or Pro Clear Advantage unit be positioned inside the pond?

Both Pond Clear and Pro Clear Advantage units are weatherproof but not waterproof. They can be exposed to rain but should never be placed under water or buried underground as the units could become waterlogged.

Should I remove my UV unit during the winter?

If the unit is frost protected, it may be left running throughout the winter. Otherwise, the unit should be removed, drained and stored safely during the winter months to ensure it is in perfect working condition at the start of the next season.

What maintenance procedures do I need to carry out on my UV units?

The UV lamp inside each Pond Clear or Pro Clear Advantage unit has a useable life of approximately 7000 hours. As green water is only a problem during the spring and summer, the lamp only needs to be replaced once a year in spring. (Please also remember to replace the "O" rings each time the lamp is changed). As stated above, it is essential that these units are protected from frost or drained and taken inside during the winter months. During spring and summer, the quartz sleeve, which separates the UV lamp from the water passing through the unit will need to be cleaned two or three times. This is very important as dirt and calcification building up on the quartz sleeve will inhibit the penetration of the ultraviolet light into the water.

How can I tell if the unit is working?

The translucent hosetails will glow when the unit is operating correctly. In strong sunlight this may not be apparent, but at night and at low light levels the glow is easily detectable.

How long after I install the unit will my pond become clear?

There are many factors which control this, including the levels of nutrients available to the algae, the water temperature and the level of sunlight. Assuming that the correct size unit has been properly installed most ponds should clear within 3-14 days. However, please allow a full six week period for the unit to take effect.

The lamp is not working. Even at night the hosetails are not glowing. What is wrong?

First check the power supply and the fuse. Check that the white electrical end caps are correctly located on the lamp pins. If it still doesn't work, remove the lamp. Check that the lamp and the quartz sleeve are not broken. Remember to switch off the electricity and water supplies before carrying out any maintenance on the unit.

The unit worked well when I first installed it but recently my pond has gradually gone green again - what is wrong?

This usually indicates that the quartz sleeve has become dirty and requires cleaning (read maintenance instructions). Also make sure you have the right model for your pond size by checking the table on the box.

Does a Pond Clear or Pro Clear Advantage unit put anything into the water, and will it harm anything living in the pond like frogs, newts, plants or fish?

Ultraviolet lamps leave no residues, and only affect the water pumped through the unit. Unlike many chemical treatments, your Pro Clear Advantage unit will not harm the plants and animals living in the water.

How long can I leave the unit running?

Pro Clear Advantage units should be run 24 hours a day, every day, from mid March to early October, depending on the weather conditions. If the unit is frost protected it may be left running throughout the winter. Otherwise, the unit should be removed, drained and stored safely for the winter.

Can I use my Pond Clear or Pro Clear Advantage unit if I am using any treatments for my fish?

From our own experience of using a wide range of treatments and medications, we have found no harmful effect from running Pro Clear Advantage units at the same time as treating a pond, although some medications may be broken down a little quicker than normal. Always check the manufacturer's instructions before using any water treatment.

Can I bury the unit underground?

Do not bury the unit. It could become waterlogged at a later date, which would be dangerous.

General Note: Large fish such as Koi can cause murky water by stirring up the bottom of the pond. This murky water should not be confused with suspended algae.

All of our pond products are available through a wide range of aquatic outlets, garden centres and pet shops throughout the UK and Europe. If you have problems finding a stockist or need FREE technical advice on our Pond Clear or Pro Clear Advantage UV units please contact us on +44 (0)1923 284151 and we will be pleased to help.