Hot UV

[KathyL]

I replaced my UV bulb on a 40 watt instrument, and in the course of checking for leaks, i felt the body and it was hotter than room or aquarium temperature. Is this normal? I unplugged it for fear that it is not. My other UV is not hot.

I am seeking advice from experienced aquarists...please.

[FuEl]

Hi Kathy,

The ballast will be warm/hot. The body of the UV itself should not be hot. It might be warm, depending on the water flow through it.

[KathyL]

That's what I'm afraid of....

[spawner]

What brand?

[Fishboy42]

Is it a Pentair? The housings get hot when the UV has burned through the sleeve. I've heard (LFS owner/friend) that they can eventually break altogether, especially on holidays (I'm worried about this too since we've still got a few of those...)