Regular cleaning of the quartz sleeve in a whole-house UV water system ensures UV light can effectively disinfect your household water. Over time, mineral deposits and scale build up on the quartz sleeve, blocking UV rays and reducing system performance.
To restore optimal clarity and protection, power off your UV unit, safely remove the sleeve, and gently clean it with a mild acid solution or vinegar to remove residue before reinstalling. Follow the detailed instructions below. strain relief wires remain connected.
How to Clean a UV Sleeve
How to Clean a Quartz Sleeve in a Whole-House UV Water System
A UV sleeve must be cleaned regularly for a UV lamp to work effectively
What is the Step-by-Step Process to Safely Clean a Quartz Sleeve for a UV System?
-
Before getting started, shut off the water supply valve going to the UV system. Then turn on a faucet in the house to depressurize the system.
-
Unplug the power. There may be an alarm that goes off as a warning.
-
Check to make sure the UV system is not too warm. You may want to allow the system to cool down for 5-10 minutes.
-
Carefully remove the protective cover or safety cap (at the top of the UV system) by squeezing the tabs.
-
Remove the lamp plug, but make sure the strain relief wires remain connected.
-
Put on new, clean gloves before removing the lamp and sleeve as oils on the skin can damage the UV lamp or sleeve.
-
Remove the lamp and sleeve assembly along with the sleeve bolt from the chamber.
-
Unscrew the UV lamp by holding the sleeve bolt.
-
Unscrew the sleeve bolt and remove o-rings from the quartz sleeve.
-
Clean the quartz UV tube with a cloth soaked in CLR, vinegar or some other mild acid. Rinse with water. Make sure not to use a towel or cloth that is abrasive or that could scratch the sleeve.
-
Begore getting started, shut off the water supply valve going to the UV system. Then turn on a faucet in the house to depressurize the system.
-
Unplug the power. There may be an alarm that goes off as a warning.
-
Check to make sure the UV system is not too warm. You may want to allow the system to cool down for 5-10 minutes.
-
Carefully remove the protective cover or safety cap (at the top of the UV system) by squeezing the tabs.
-
Remove the lamp plug, but make sure the strain relief wires remain connected.
-
Put on new, clean gloves before removing the lamp and sleeve as oils on the skin can damage the UV lamp or sleeve.
-
Remove the lamp and sleeve assembly along with the sleeve bolt from the chamber.
-
Unscrew the UV lamp by holding the sleeve bolt.
-
Unscrew the sleeve bolt and remove o-rings from the quartz sleeve.
-
Clean the quartz UV tube with a cloth soaked in CLR, vinegar or some other mild acid. Rinse with water. Make sure not to use a towel or cloth that is abrasive or that could scratch the sleeve.
What is the Purpose of a UV Sleeve?
The clear tube that protects a UV lamp is called a "UV sleeve" and is generally made of quartz. The UV quartz sleeve is an essential part of any UV water filtration system. The protection sleeve can gradually become coated with mineral deposits and other contaminants, but its job is to be a barrier between the UV lamp and the water flowing past.
Buy UV Lamps and Sleeves
UV quartz sleeves protect the ultraviolet lamp in a UV water sterilizer system. UV sleeves are an essential part of any UV water filtration system.
Cleaning a UV Quartz Sleeve FAQs
How often should you clean the quartz sleeve in a UV water disinfection system?
For most residential UV water purifier, cleaning the quartz sleeve at least once a year is the baseline. If water quality is poor (hard water, high iron/manganese, well water) it may need cleaning every 3-6 months.
You may want to clean the UV sleeve at the same time you're replacing the UV lamp each year.
NOTE: Some UV lamps have a lifespan longer than 12 months, but generally UV lamps should be changed out every 12-24 months.
Does water quality and location affect how you clean or maintain a quartz sleeve?
Yes — your local water conditions and installation environment make a big difference. High hardness or high iron and manganese levels can cause faster mineral buildup on the quartz sleeve. Homes using well water or untreated municipal water typically require more frequent maintenance. If you live in an area with sandy sediment, heavy water usage, or seasonal fluctuations, pairing your UV system with proper pre-filtration and scheduling more regular sleeve cleanings is essential. Reviewing your local water report for hardness and iron levels will help determine how often to clean the quartz sleeve.
When Should a UV Sleeve be Replaced?
It is recommended that all quartz sleeves be replaced every 2-3 years. Completely replacing the sleeve every 24-36 months will ensure the UV system continues to operate properly.
What signs indicate the quartz sleeve is dirty or needs replacement?
-
A visible cloudy or white film on the sleeve’s outer surface (scale or mineral deposits).
-
A drop in UV intensity in systems that measure lamp output or color change.
-
Repeated cleaning without full clarity — meaning the sleeve may be scratched or pitted and should be replaced.
If these signs appear, you should either clean more often or replace the sleeve entirely.
How to Clean a Quartz Sleeve in UV Water Treatment?
To clean a quartz sleeve, first turn off power to the UV system and allow it to cool. Remove the UV lamp and gently slide out the quartz sleeve. Wipe the sleeve with a soft, lint-free cloth soaked in white vinegar or a mild citric acid solution to remove mineral deposits or scale buildup. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry completely before reassembling. Avoid using abrasive materials that can scratch the sleeve. If the quartz sleeve remains cloudy or stained, it’s best to replace it to maintain optimal UV disinfection performance.
More You Might Like
Benefits of Carbon Water Filters
Want cleaner, better-tasting water? Discover how carbon filters remove hidden contaminants and transform your tap water.
Read More>
Get Great Results from a UV Sterilizer
Before purchasing a UV water disinfection system, we suggest considering the following recommendations to get the best results.
Read More>
Benefits of UV Water Disinfection
Treating water with Ultraviolet (UV) light is one of the MOST effective ways to treat waterborne microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses...
Read More>
