Reflector material for strip light

[Fresh04]

Bought a 30" 55w All-Glass compact flourescent strip light for my 36 gal. aquarium. The reflectors on it are flat, and I read in another thread that I am losing a lot of light this way.

Question is, are there any places I can get the reflector material, and fit it into my setup so that more light gets sent where it belongs, into my tank!

I am pretty handy, so I have no problem cutting material, fitting it in, whatever, any input would be great!

[Captain Hook]

You will need a specific tool for bending metal if you are planning on making a reflector with a few angles in it. In general those are better because they keep light away from the bulbs rather then sending it right back at them. It makes bulbs last longer and puts more light into the tank. I think there are program designed to generate the required angles but not sure.

[DEmigh]

I have seen a retro-fit reflector kit at a LFS (not my favorite). I didn't pay much attention to it when I saw it, but I'll go back by and take notes. It'll be Friday before I can get that info back to you though... :(

[DIYMatt]

Check here:http://www.ahsupply.com

I did not check to see that they actually sell the reflectors seperately from their kits. But, if they do, the are reported to be the best reflectors currently available and they are designed for CF bulbs. Good luck!

[Fresh04]

Awesome DIYMatt, thanks!

Shoot, now I want to ebay the 55 watt I have and get the DIY kit! lol!

I will try and see if they will sell just the reflector though.

Thanks again!

[Raithan Ellis]

http://www.thatfishplace.com carries several types of reflectors, some are adjustable in width (slotted grooves that a screw can be tightened to hold in place).

Cheers,
Raithan O. Ellis

[blitzen25bm]

i tried using the shiny side of aluminum foil before, seemed like it worked, wasnt huge on live plants so i guess it didnt matter, but the tank was lit up fine.

[Fresh04]

Thanks guys,

Raithan, I do a lot of shopping from that site, and I am having trouble finding that type of reflector. I see the perfecto light strips, but all I need is the actual reflective material. Is it hidden somewhere on that site (like out of the fish category)?

Any more help would be greatly appreciated, thanks.

[Raithan Ellis]

Fresh04 - I do not see it listed in their website catalog, but they do carry them at their retail outlet. If I have some spare time this week, while I'm in Lancaster, will be sure to check for brand/model of the reflector and let you know.

Regards,
Raithan O. Ellis

[RTR]

AHSupply will sell the reflectors separately, they only show on the order form itself if I remember correctly, or easiest, just call them.

[marks69]

the easy way to bend it would be nail 2 peices of 2x4 together along 1 side, get a peice of shiny metal from home depot, check in the ductwork section, you can use cold air return .
just cut it to the right size, measure in both sides the same and draw a line.then slide the metal into your 2x4 break, stand on break and lift metal.
then repeat on the other side.
i used to do custom sheet metal on the sides of apartment buildings and that how we made everything

[Raithan Ellis]

Found out what brand reflector I have been using with my power compacts, it's made by Coralife and is 48" long, and is adjustable in width with a mirrored finish. I believe That Fish Place still carries this product.