View Full Version : Question and confused on lighting
jlink17
10-03-2009, 4:14 PM
Okay, I bought a 75w under the counter light from Walmart and the package says it is a "grow light" which is 75w output and uses 17w of energy. The only specks I can see for it are that it is rated 120V 60Hz 17W 300mA. So what I am wondering is would this work on my 37g tank and would I consider this as 2w per gallon and have enough to grow some plants in the tank?
Squawkbert
10-03-2009, 4:21 PM
What you bought is a 17W PC bulb/fixture whose output is roughly equal to that of a 75W incandescent bulb. Get another one lust like it and you'll be at ~1w/g. Start out w/ lowlight plants (Java anything, HM, Najas to mention a few).
jlink17
10-03-2009, 4:24 PM
So, I basically only have 17w of light then? I am confused.
So, I basically only have 17w of light then? I am confused.
Yes, you go by the actual wattage used.
The 2 watts per gallon guidline assumes you have flourscent lamps of some kind.
The 75W on the packet indicates it will replace a 75w incandescent lamp, but you have a 17w lamp there.
If it has the right tube (5,00 - 7,000K), and you get a couple more, then you are in the plant growing range.
Ian
jlink17
10-04-2009, 12:41 PM
Thanks guys. I am a plant newbie so all the help and advice I can get is appreciated.