View Full Version : How long should tank lights be on
krucialkey560
09-08-2003, 4:24 PM
Hey everyone i was just wondering whats a good amount of time to keep the tank lights on?Also in a planted tank too,about how many hours a day should they be on/off?Holla!Much love
krucialkey560
OrionGirl
09-08-2003, 4:38 PM
Depends on several conditions. Some plants are very happy in low light conditions, while others need strong light, and lots of it. Not all lights are equal, so running some all day won't cause a problem, while having high wattage lights on for 12+ hours may cause algae, and well as heating issues.
My planted tanks are lighted for 8-10 hours per day.
Andy16
09-08-2003, 7:56 PM
8-12 are what most people do. I dont really have a time sicne i dont have a timer. I just turn them on when i wake up and when i go to sleep. I probably have them on longer then 12 hours but havent had any serious algae problems yet. I know its not a good idea to do, but i guess i have im lucky and my tank doesnt have everything that algae needs.
All of my tanks are fully timer-controlled for light cycles. My on times vary from 11 1/2 to 12 1/2 hours.
Pink Pat
09-09-2003, 8:00 AM
krucialkey560,
I would concur that timers are essential for 'proper' lighting control. Setting them to a time when you are most likely to be available to view the aquarium is also a good idea. Using timers will allow for a standard photoperiod for the fish and ensures regularity for those days when you are not available.
All of my aquariums, grow out, planted and FO are all set to a 12/12 on/off cycle set from 10am to 10pm. The only differenceis that my display aquariums have a sunrise/sunset lighting feature for a more controlled atmosphere.
HTH
PP
stoopid
09-09-2003, 8:45 AM
Originally posted by Pink Pat
I would concur that timers are essential for 'proper' lighting control. Setting them to a time when you are most likely to be available to view the aquarium is also a good idea. Using timers will allow for a standard photoperiod for the fish and ensures regularity for those days when you are not available.
I'll second this.
I do not have any plants (other than the plastic ones), so my timer's set from 4:30PM to 10:30 PM. Fish have already learned that soon after the light comes on I get home and feed them their daily bread, so they tend to be real 'friendly' when I'm walking in the door. ;)
Oh, and algae isn't out of control and it isn't completely dark for more than 7 hours as the sun comes into the living room and provides limited light for them during the day.