View Full Version : Compact Fluorescent Setup.
Richer
12-07-2002, 4:51 PM
I'm thinking about converting my 20gallon bowfront into a low/moderate light plant tank. Currently, I have a spare 55 watt CF light setup that I got cheap off of a friend (its made by Oceanic). Would it be a problem if I put a 36watt CF bulb in there, instead of a 55watt?
TIA
-Richer
slipknottin
12-07-2002, 5:16 PM
hmm....
any way you could pop the cover off and see who makes the ballast?
Richer
12-07-2002, 5:29 PM
Thanks for the reply slip,
Apparently the electronic ballast is made by All-glass aquarium... does that make sense? I always thought they only made aquarium and stands? :confused:
-Richer
slipknottin
12-07-2002, 5:31 PM
you can use the 36 watt bulb. It will overdrive the bulb however, and it wont last as long. But it should work fine, and will actually be brighter.
Richer
12-07-2002, 5:33 PM
Hm... any idea how much of the bulb's lifespan will be taken away? (ie. 30%, 50%, etc.)
So I can just ignore the "Use 55 watt bulbs only" warning right? :D
-Richer
slipknottin
12-07-2002, 5:37 PM
it works the same with all electronic ballasts...
youd only be overdriving by a small amount so the bulb should last almost as long...
Richer
12-07-2002, 5:38 PM
Thanks a bunch, no need for the 36 watt light kit then =)
-Richer
static69static
12-07-2002, 9:13 PM
Just use a 55 watt bulb, and you will be just under 3 watts per gallon, then you can plant anything. If you are like me, you will move up eventually, so just take the giant step.
Richer
12-07-2002, 9:15 PM
Heh, I currently run two high light, CO2 injected, fertillized almost daily, pruned weekly, *cough wheeze cough* tanks. I'm gonna go for something of less maintenance =)
-Richer