U
V S STERIL
TERIL
UV
UV sterilization
The Lowdown on Getting Clean
by Shannon McKee
Ultraviolet sterilization is a disinfection method that uses ultraviolet
light to kill microorganisms. It destroys nucleic acids and disrupts
their DNA, leaving them unable to perform cellular functions.
C
onsidering you’re often growing crops for consumption, you want to keep your system
sterile. But, keeping your hydroponic set-up free and clear of nastiness isn’t always
easy. Algae, bacteria, and fungi aren’t easy to control, especially if they’ve gotten a foothold
in your system. Also, pretty much every method of keeping your hydroponic system sterile
can be somewhat invasive and problematic. Ultraviolet (UV) sterilization isn’t a completely
perfect solution for your sterilization efforts, but it’s one of the best options available today,
especially when compared to bleaching and other methodologies.
HOW UV WORKS
It may seem crazy that a light would be able to kill off bacteria, algae, and fungi,
but when you consider people use sunscreen to protect their skin from UV rays,
it makes a bit more sense. Using a UV light sterilizer, you’re pitting the power
of the sun against your unwanted organisms. Ultraviolet light damages the
DNA of the cells it hits, and that’s how it effectively kills pathogens.
UV STERILIZER, FILTER, AND PUMP
There are several different UV sterilizer set-ups you can choose
from for your hydroponic system. One option combines the
UV system, filter, and a pump. The water in your system
is drawn into the sterilizer, is exposed to the UV
light, goes through a filter, and gets pumped back
out of it. This type of system is popular in
aquaponics and aquariums as it makes
installation easy.
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grow cycle