Aqua UV Classic 57W 2" Black — Compact 355 Gal Saltwater UV Sterilizer - Aqua Ultraviolet

Aqua UV Classic 57 Watt Black 2" UV Sterilizer — Bacterial Control for Marine Aquariums up to 355 Gallons

The Aqua Ultraviolet Classic 57 Watt UV sterilizer in a black housing is the most powerful model in the Classic series in a compact format. It eliminates single-celled algae, pathogenic bacteria, and protozoa in large marine aquariums and freshwater ponds. Founded in 1975, Aqua Ultraviolet is a recognized leader in UV sterilization for aquariums. This model with 2-inch inlet/outlet in a black finish integrates discreetly into your sump's return plumbing thanks to its quick-disconnect union fittings. The black housing is ideal for under-cabinet installations where a minimalist aesthetic is preferred. Also available in a white housing.

The 57-watt germicidal UV lamp uses the same compact format as the 25W model (17-3/8" lamp length), but delivers significantly higher UV power. The streamlined housing maximizes the dwell time between water and UV light for a 99.9% elimination rate. Aqua Ultraviolet calculates and publishes its flow rates at 30,000 µw/cm² at the end of lamp life (14 months), meaning no flow adjustment is needed throughout the lamp's lifespan. The transparent blue cap allows visual confirmation that the lamp is on without exposure to UV-C rays.

Technical Specifications

• Power: 57 watts, 1 UV lamp
• Inlet/Outlet: 2" slip with quick-disconnect unions
• Dimensions: 20" x 3-3/4" x 6" (50.8 x 9.5 x 15.2 cm)
• Weight: 7 lb (3.2 kg)
• Power Supply: 120V / 60Hz, external transformer
• Lamp Life: 14 months continuous use
• Housing Color: Black
• Wiper: Not included (non-wiper model)

Treatment Capacities

• Freshwater (sterilizer): 1,500 to 3,000 gallons — max flow 3,200 GPH at 30,000 µw/cm²
• Freshwater (clarifier): up to 6,500 gallons with 50-75% plant coverage
• Saltwater (sterilizer): up to 355 gallons — flow 1,066 GPH at 90,000 µw/cm²

Recommended Flow Rates by UV Dose

• 30,000 µw/cm² (EOL): 3,200 GPH (max flow)
• 45,000 µw/cm² (EOL): 2,133 GPH
• 60,000 µw/cm² (EOL): 1,600 GPH
• 75,000 µw/cm² (EOL): 1,280 GPH
• 90,000 µw/cm² (EOL): 1,066 GPH (min flow)

Use in Reef Aquariums

For a reef aquarium with corals and live rock, use this sterilizer at a flow rate corresponding to 30,000 or 45,000 µw/cm². Higher flow rates (75,000 or 90,000 µw/cm²) would destroy the planktonic food necessary for the reef. For a fish-only marine aquarium (without reef or live rock), flow rates of 75,000 or 90,000 µw/cm² are recommended for maximum disease control. All UV dosages are calculated at the end of lamp life (14 months).

Comparison with Other Classic Models

The Classic 57W offers the best power-to-size ratio in the series. Its compact 20-inch housing is identical to the 25W model, but its 57-watt lamp treats up to 355 gallons in saltwater compared to 150 gallons for the 25W. The 40W model, meanwhile, treats 325 gallons but in a longer 36-7/8 inch housing. The 57W is therefore the optimal choice for aquarists seeking maximum power in a confined space.

Installation and Maintenance

Install the sterilizer after the filter or skimmer for optimal efficiency. The unit is not submersible and is suitable for indoor or outdoor use. The UV-stabilized black housing resists weathering and offers a discreet look under the aquarium cabinet. Lamp replacement is easy thanks to the EZ Twist Cap accessible from one side. Aqua Ultraviolet recommends changing the lamp after 14 months of continuous use and regularly cleaning the quartz sleeve to maintain optimal UV transmission. In saltwater, clean the quartz sleeve more frequently to prevent salt deposits.

Important: Aqua Ultraviolet does not recommend the use of the wiper in saltwater. Using the wiper in saltwater voids the warranty on wiper parts. This model comes without a wiper.

Warranty

Limited lifetime warranty on the black housing, 1 year on the transformer, and 12-month prorated warranty on the lamp (quartz sleeve is excluded from warranty).

Included in the Box

Black housing, transformer, 57W UV lamp, and quartz sleeve — ready to install.

Why Choose ReefSolution

ReefSolution offers the Aqua UV Classic 57W black sterilizer with fast shipping across Canada. Complete your setup with:

• Aqua Ultraviolet Classic 57W Replacement Lamp (A20057) — 57-watt replacement UV lamp
• Aqua Ultraviolet Classic Quartz Sleeve — Replacement quartz sleeve for maintenance
• Sicce Syncra SDC 9.0 — Controllable DC return pump 1,000-2,500 GPH, compatible with recommended flow rate

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the Aqua UV Classic 25W, 40W, and 57W for a reef aquarium?

The Classic 25W treats up to 150 gallons of saltwater, the 40W up to 325 gallons, and the 57W up to 355 gallons. The 57W has the advantage of offering a compact 20-inch housing (identical to the 25W) while delivering the highest power in the single-lamp range. The 40W has a longer 36-7/8 inch housing.

How often should I change the UV lamp of the Aqua UV Classic 57W?

Aqua Ultraviolet recommends replacing the lamp after 14 months of continuous use. This is the longest lifespan in the industry. Also, replace the quartz sleeve once a year to maintain optimal efficiency, especially in saltwater where mineral deposits accumulate faster.

Is the black housing as effective as the white housing for the Aqua Ultraviolet UV sterilizer?

Yes, the housing color does not affect the sterilizer's efficiency or lifespan in any way. It's purely an aesthetic choice. The black housing is popular for under-aquarium cabinet installations where it blends discreetly into the environment.