Combat algae with the Aquarium Fresher or the Twinstar

Twinstar and Aquarium Fresher for algae control: Already a few days ago we had with our article on Algae determination, on the possibilities of Combat pointed out. There we mainly dealt with the conventional methods (dark cure, mechanical removal, ...). Now the manufacturers and industry always have new devices in stock to get the algae under control. Two of these devices are the Twinstar and the Aquarium Fresher. In this article you can find out what these devices promise and what they can ultimately do. We not only took a close look at the devices, but also carefully examined the tests and experiences of previous users. The result is very different. But more on that later.

 

 

How does the Algae Fresher and the Twinstar work

Both devices are available in different versions, whereby the functions differ only slightly.

Both manufacturers basically promise the same thing. In addition to clear water, the freedom from algae is mentioned again and again. There are also models from the Twinstar devices that are supposed to work against germs in the aquarium. Above all fish diseases are to be eliminated. There is also always talk of shrimp and co becoming more agile, because the additional oxygen ensures more vitality.

 

 

But now a word about the structure. Basically, there is an electrode in the various devices, which ensures that oxygen is released directly in the water through the splitting of the water. This can also be seen through the bubbles.

The oxygen O2 is normally bound by the hydrogen molecules. The water molecules are split by the electrodes of the devices and O2 is produced in free form, which can now be dissolved in the water.

Update: We received a statement directly from the manufacturer:

“O2 is one of the products that is formed when the water molecule is broken down. What is more important for us is the atomic oxygen (O), which binds to organic matter (such as algae, faeces, leftover food...) and breaks it down. I am attaching an information graphic that shows this process well. The precise chemical process behind this is of course somewhat more complex. If you are interested, we would be happy to provide you with more detailed information.”

The Twinstar seems to go a little further, because its function should also release the ozone as radicals. This release then reacts with the algae spores in the aquarium. Twinstar also works with a certain algorithm that we miss in Aquarium Fresher devices (at least this was not described anywhere).

Update: We received a statement directly from the manufacturer:

“That's right, we don't have an algorithm in our devices. The background to this is that we strive for a constant release of atomic oxygen in order to keep the concentration at the same high level over a longer period of time. We have had the best experiences with this methodology. In addition, we prevent the aquarium from being "fogged up", as is sometimes the case with the Twinstar. We have customers who hook their Aquarium-Fresher to the aquarium timer to time it with the aquarium's day/night rhythm. That is also possible without any problems.”

There is basically only the electrode and a power pack, which can be adjusted according to the power. Intervals and switching cycles do not seem to have been implemented here.

This seems to be different with the Twinstar because the electrode is connected to a special device. This also contains some electronics. Unfortunately, we could not find out anything about the exact function of the algorithms.

 

 

A brief summary of what the devices are supposed to do:

 

 

Which devices are available with the Aquarium Fresher?

Let's start with the devices of the Aquarium Fresher. There are “only” two models available here. One is called Large and one Small. The only difference seems to be the power of the power supply and the size of the electrode. The Aquarium Fresher Small is for tanks up to 200 liters and the Aquarium Fresher Large is for freshwater aquariums up to 500 liters. Both devices are not cheap. The large is over the counter for around 170 euros and its little brother for around 100 euros.

 

What devices does the Twinstar have?

There are many more different models and types of Twinstar devices. First, a distinction is made between the M and S series. There are also the Shrimps 30 and Shrimps 50 models, which were specially built for shrimp and nano aquariums. You can also find models with the names Nano and Nano+. In addition, two devices called Yotta and Yotta+ are offered. Here are the differences:

 

 

 

 

As you can see from this selection, it is not easy to find the right device for you. The prices also differ accordingly, although these are similar in comparison to the Aquarium Fresher.

 

What do customers say about this? What are the experiences, tests and opinions on the algae control devices?

 

Aquarium fresher

One can speak of a rather mixed ratio for both devices. The devices from Aquarium Fresher seem to perform a little more negatively. There is very good success there, which shows a significant reduction in algae after just two weeks. In addition, the water seems to be much clearer and the vitality of the shrimp increases. Nevertheless, there are also some users who have used the Aquarium Fresher and have not been able to prove any success. Of course, the question always remains about expectations.

Update: We received a statement directly from the manufacturer:

"You are right in any case - no device will be able to "save" aquariums that are completely overgrown with algae and whose water parameters are out of balance. Nevertheless, we can say that a large number of aquariums in which the use of the Aquarium-Fresher did not initially work could be corrected with a few "adjustments". A lot depends on the conductivity of the water. If this is very low, the Aquarium-Fresher can run at the highest level and still not be effective. As with many things in aquaristics, patience is required. Nevertheless, we can say that our customer satisfaction is generally very satisfactory.”

You won't be able to expect a faster miracle machine here either. Nevertheless, the Algae Fresher seems to have worked well on the thread algae.

After a certain time, however, you should remove dirt from the electrode. Aquarium Fresher even offers special cleaning tabs for this purpose. There is no sign of wear on the electrode and there doesn't seem to be a replacement electrode available either. Here we ask ourselves whether you then have to buy a whole new device. And how long will the device last?

Update: We received a statement directly from the manufacturer:

“We have Aquarium Freshers that have been running continuously for more than three years and expect most to last about that long - if not longer. Basically, there is nothing about the electrode that can wear out or wear out; should it calcify, it is fully operational again after cleaning with the cleaning tabs. If the electrode breaks anyway, a replacement part can be ordered from our shop proaqua-shop.at. Here we offer every part of the complete system for subsequent purchase.”

Twinstar models

Many tests on the Twinstar models show rapid success. Nevertheless, customers here also seem to complain about the expensive price. The durability of the electrode was also partly criticized. The effect often wears off quickly and a new electrode is needed. The electrodes can be bought as spare parts. There is a clear advantage here compared to the Aquarium Fresher. One customer even complained that his snails died after using the Twinstar 2 Nano Sterilizer.

Nevertheless, the majority of all customers are very positive.

But one thing should be considered in any case, so as not to have too high expectations. Both devices will not bring quick and definitive success when it comes to combating algae. This is where you need to bring a lot of patience.

 

 

Finally, we have linked a video for you.

 

 

Of course we would also be interested in your opinion. Who of you has experience with the devices? What do you think of the Twinstar and Aquarium Fresher models?