T-5 Lighting (1 Viewer)

[Linden]

I wanted to hear some opinions on how often to replace light bulbs. I have a 90 Gallon Tank with a good mix of corals and 4 48" T-5 lights 2 are 10,000K and 2 are Actinic. The bulbs are a couple of years old and are working just fine as far as I can tell (no slow in the growth of my corals). I have read that these bulbs should be replaced once a year. What do you all think?

 

[Raymond]

once a year is about right. some people do every 8 months.

 

[Linden]

Is there really any loss in wave length, or deterioration in light that happens over the life span of the bulbs?

 

[AquaNerd]

as with any light bulb, t5ho can shift in spectrum as they age. their par output can decrease as well. a t5ho bulb can last 18-24 months, but i would switch them out annually so as to not lose any growth or promote any algae growth, and to not burn the corals by a much brighter new bulb.

 

[CBBSteve]

Is there really any loss in wave length, or deterioration in light that happens over the life span of the bulbs?

Yes, most definitely.
All fluorescent tubes lose lumens over time, its just a matter of fact. They will get dimmer the longer they are in use. When you overdrive them, like I do with with IceCap ballasts, they deteriorate even faster.

One thing you can try is to buy a new single 10K bulb and install it next to the old bulb in your fixture and compare the difference. I think you'll notice it.

Of course, if you're happy with the current bulbs, then why change anything? Your coral growth is good and you're happy with the color then leave well enough alone, IMO.

Good luck,
Steve

 

[Linden]

Thanks Steve, your suggestion is great. I have heard most of the answers before, but I was unsure of how much of it is true, and how much was rumors. The side by side test will show all I am sure. It is hard to see a change when you view it everyday.

 

[Linden]

Would you recommend sticking with the 2 54 watt 10,000K and 2 54 watt 460 nm actinics like I currently have? I like the look of the lighting. Would there be another combo anyone would suggest for better coloration and coral growth? Also Anyone know a geed place to get new bulbs? The bulbs I have now are Current...how about Corallife or Aquasun?

 

[slyfox]

our sponsor reef geek is very good for bulbs... city pets has a good selection locally

personally i like the giesemann 11ks and the ati 12ks as a main bulb

what corals do you have? softies, lps or sps? do you have many red corals?

 

[Linden]

I have lots of softies, a few lps (frogspawn, hammer, plate and candycane) and no sps ( I didnt think T-5 ho lighting was strong enough for sps). I dont have any red corals... a few zoas have neon orange.