BIO-UV High Output 55W UV-C Lamp – Germicidal Water Treatment Component

As a retailer of hot tub spare parts, pool equipment, and UV sterilization systems, I supply genuine replacement UV-C lamps for BIO-UV water treatment units. This 55W high-output lamp is the core germicidal component that produces the 254nm ultraviolet radiation essential for destroying bacteria, viruses, algae, and other waterborne microorganisms across multiple BIO-UV model ranges.

UV-C Technology and Germicidal Action

UV-C lamps produce shortwave ultraviolet radiation at 254 nanometers, the wavelength most effectively absorbed by the DNA and RNA of microorganisms. This absorption causes irreversible damage to genetic material, preventing cellular reproduction and rendering pathogens unable to cause infection or contamination. Unlike chemical sanitizers that require mixing time and specific concentration levels, UV-C light provides instantaneous germicidal action as water flows past the lamp.

The 55W high-output specification indicates this lamp’s electrical power consumption, which correlates directly to UV-C intensity. Higher wattage lamps produce greater germicidal output, enabling treatment of higher flow rates or achieving more thorough microbial destruction. The “high output” designation signifies enhanced UV-C production compared to standard lamps, maximizing water treatment effectiveness within the physical constraints of the UV chamber.

Comprehensive Model Compatibility

This 55W UV-C lamp provides germicidal treatment across several BIO-UV ranges:

BIO-UV20 – This compact residential system utilizes the 55W lamp to treat pools and hot tubs up to approximately 20 cubic meters, providing chemical-free microbial control for smaller domestic installations where space and power requirements favor compact equipment.

UV170 – Designed for medium-capacity residential and light commercial pools, the UV170 relies on this lamp’s high output to treat larger water volumes while maintaining effective flow rates through the chamber. The 55W output ensures adequate UV dose delivery even at the higher flow rates these mid-range systems accommodate.

UV250 – Built for substantial pools and commercial applications, the UV250 demands the enhanced germicidal intensity this high-output lamp delivers. The increased water volume and flow rates in these installations require maximum UV-C production to achieve the necessary microbial reduction levels.

UV NEO 12 – Part of BIO-UV’s advanced NEO range, this model incorporates modern monitoring and control features while utilizing the proven 55W lamp technology. The NEO series offers enhanced user interface and diagnostic capabilities while maintaining the reliable germicidal performance of established UV lamp designs.

Understanding UV Lamp Lifespan and Degradation

UV-C lamps have a finite operational life, typically rated at 9,000 to 13,000 hours depending on lamp construction and operating conditions. Importantly, the lamp continues to produce visible light long after its UV-C output has degraded below effective levels. The mercury vapor within the lamp gradually depletes, and the phosphor coating that facilitates UV-C production deteriorates over time, resulting in progressive reduction of germicidal effectiveness.

Most manufacturers recommend annual lamp replacement regardless of whether the lamp still illuminates. A lamp operating beyond its rated life may produce only 50-60% of its initial UV-C output, severely compromising water treatment despite appearing to function normally. This invisible performance degradation explains why regular replacement based on operating hours rather than lamp failure is essential for maintaining water quality.

Operating conditions significantly affect lamp life. Frequent on-off cycling accelerates electrode wear and reduces total operational hours. Inadequate cooling due to low water flow or excessive water temperature shortens lamp life. Conversely, continuous operation at proper water flow rates and temperatures maximizes the lamp’s effective service life.

Lamp Construction and Technical Design

UV-C germicidal lamps consist of a fused quartz tube filled with low-pressure mercury vapor. When electrical current from the ballast energizes the lamp, the mercury vaporizes and produces UV radiation primarily at 253.7nm – essentially identical to the optimal 254nm germicidal wavelength. The quartz tube, unlike standard glass, transmits this UV-C radiation into the surrounding environment.

High-output lamps incorporate specialized electrode designs and optimal mercury fill pressures to maximize UV-C production. The internal surface often features phosphor coatings that convert some shorter UV wavelengths into additional 254nm output, enhancing overall germicidal effectiveness. The lamp’s 760mm length provides substantial surface area for UV emission while fitting within the chamber dimensions of compatible BIO-UV models.

Ballast-Lamp Integration

This 55W lamp requires compatible electronic ballast regulation to operate correctly. The ballast provides the initial high voltage to ionize the mercury vapor and establish the arc, then regulates current to maintain stable lamp operation. Mismatched ballast-lamp combinations result in inadequate UV-C output, shortened lamp life, or complete failure to ignite.

Electronic ballasts, as used in BIO-UV systems, offer instant starting without the flickering characteristic of magnetic ballasts. They maintain consistent lamp output despite voltage fluctuations and operate more efficiently, converting greater electrical input into UV-C radiation rather than waste heat. The ballast also incorporates protection circuitry that prevents lamp damage from power surges or abnormal operating conditions.

Installation and Replacement Procedures

Lamp replacement requires careful handling to avoid damaging the fragile quartz tube or contaminating its surface. Oils from skin contact reduce UV transmission, so lamps should be handled with clean gloves or through the packaging. The lamp installs within the quartz sleeve, connecting at both ends to the ballast via specialized sockets that maintain electrical contact while allowing thermal expansion.

When replacing the lamp, simultaneously inspect the quartz sleeve for scale buildup, scratches, or cracks. Even a new lamp cannot deliver adequate UV dose if the surrounding quartz sleeve blocks UV transmission. O-ring seals should also be examined and replaced if they show wear, as water intrusion can cause electrical faults and lamp failure.

Germicidal Effectiveness and Water Quality Impact

Effective UV treatment dramatically reduces the microbiological load in pool and spa water, complementing chemical sanitizers rather than replacing them entirely. UV-C radiation destroys chlorine-resistant pathogens like Cryptosporidium and Giardia that can survive normal chlorine levels for extended periods. It also neutralizes bacteria, viruses, and algae spores, reducing the chemical demand required to maintain water clarity and safety.

The germicidal dose delivered depends on lamp output, water flow rate, and UV transmission through the quartz sleeve. Proper system sizing ensures water receives at least 30-40 mJ/cm² as it passes through the chamber – adequate to achieve 99.9% reduction of most waterborne pathogens. Higher doses provide greater microbial destruction but require reduced flow rates or multiple UV units in series.

UV treatment offers chemical-free disinfection without producing harmful byproducts. Unlike chlorine, which forms chloramines and trihalomethanes, UV leaves no residual compounds in the water. This reduces chemical odor, eye irritation, and skin dryness while maintaining superior water hygiene. However, UV provides no residual protection, so a minimal sanitizer level remains necessary to control contamination between water recirculations.

Monitoring and Maintenance Requirements

UV systems require minimal maintenance beyond annual lamp replacement and periodic quartz sleeve cleaning. However, monitoring system operation ensures continuous protection. Many BIO-UV units incorporate lamp operation indicators or UV intensity sensors that alert when output falls below effective levels.

Water chemistry significantly affects UV system performance. High turbidity or color reduces UV penetration into the water, requiring longer exposure time or higher UV intensity to achieve equivalent microbial destruction. Maintaining proper filtration and chemical balance ensures the UV system operates at maximum effectiveness.

Regular inspection of lamp operation should include verification that the lamp illuminates fully along its entire length and that no unusual flickering or end-glow patterns appear. These symptoms often indicate impending lamp failure or ballast issues requiring attention.

Genuine BIO-UV Component Assurance

This is an authentic BIO-UV manufactured lamp, engineered specifically for the electrical and thermal characteristics of BIO-UV systems. Genuine lamps meet stringent quality standards for UV-C output, operational life, and reliability. The precise mercury fill, electrode design, and quartz purity are optimized to deliver consistent germicidal performance throughout the rated service life.

Generic or substitute lamps may use inferior materials, incorrect wattage ratings, or substandard manufacturing processes that compromise UV output and longevity. Using non-genuine lamps can void equipment warranties and may result in inadequate water treatment despite the lamp appearing to function normally. The potentially lower initial cost of generic lamps rarely compensates for their reduced effectiveness and shorter operational life.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Detail
Product Code	7111676015
Power Rating	55W High Output
UV-C Output Wavelength	254nm (primary germicidal)
Compatible Models	BIO-UV20, UV170, UV250, UV NEO 12
Lamp Type	Low-Pressure Mercury Vapor
Rated Life	9,000-13,000 hours
Length	760mm
Tube Material	Fused Quartz
Weight	0.6 kg
Dimensions (L x W x H)	760mm x 60mm x 60mm
Volume	0.002736 m³ (packaged)
Replacement Interval	Annual (or per operating hours)

Maximizing Water Treatment Effectiveness

To achieve optimal germicidal performance from your UV system, ensure the lamp operates continuously during pool or spa use rather than intermittent operation. Continuous runtime maximizes total water treatment while reducing electrode wear from frequent starting cycles. The lamp reaches full UV-C output within seconds of ignition and maintains stable intensity during extended operation.

Coordinate lamp replacement with the beginning of your peak usage season to ensure maximum UV output when water treatment demands are highest. Keep records of installation dates and operating hours to schedule replacement before output degradation affects water quality. Consider replacing the quartz sleeve simultaneously with the lamp to maximize UV transmission and simplify maintenance scheduling.

Supporting Your UV Water Treatment Investment

This 55W high-output lamp represents the essential component in your BIO-UV water treatment system, directly responsible for the germicidal action that protects water quality. Regular replacement according to manufacturer recommendations ensures your system delivers consistent microbial control, reduces chemical demand, and maintains the superior water clarity and comfort that effective UV treatment provides. The lamp’s role in creating healthier, more enjoyable pool and spa water makes it a critical maintenance item for any UV-equipped aquatic facility.