I've got a 125 tank with discus and plants. I'm running CO2 and currently have compact fluorescents. The CF's are in need of replacement and other repair, so I'm thinking about replacing them. I'd like a light that will grow plants and enhance the colors of the discus.
I've always wanted to run metal halides, but I want so consider all my options.
One option is to get another CF fixture, some replacement parts, sockets, clips, ballasts, and all new bulbs.
I've looked at combination fixtures-MH with Fluorescents.
I'm considering a T5 strip, but I'd probably have to get 2 three foot strips because I cant find a 6 foot strip.
I havent researched the LED's much. I've got some LED work lights and flashlights, and the bulbs are supposed to last almost forever. Would that be an advantage of a LED fixture, or does the light fall off over time? I know they dont consume nearly as much electricity, and they dont get hot like other fixtures.
I'm not looking for the cheapest alternative, I'm looking for the best way to go long term. Cheapest for me would be another CF and some repair. But replacing the bulbs every 6 months or so gets expensive, and I forget to replace them until one burns out.
As of today, I'm leaning toward T5s, but Id sure like to hear from someone thats running LED's to find out how thats working for them.
I'd like to pull the trigger pretty soon here, but Id sure like to hear your opinions on whats working for you.
Thanks
Brad
I've always wanted to run metal halides, but I want so consider all my options.
One option is to get another CF fixture, some replacement parts, sockets, clips, ballasts, and all new bulbs.
I've looked at combination fixtures-MH with Fluorescents.
I'm considering a T5 strip, but I'd probably have to get 2 three foot strips because I cant find a 6 foot strip.
I havent researched the LED's much. I've got some LED work lights and flashlights, and the bulbs are supposed to last almost forever. Would that be an advantage of a LED fixture, or does the light fall off over time? I know they dont consume nearly as much electricity, and they dont get hot like other fixtures.
I'm not looking for the cheapest alternative, I'm looking for the best way to go long term. Cheapest for me would be another CF and some repair. But replacing the bulbs every 6 months or so gets expensive, and I forget to replace them until one burns out.
As of today, I'm leaning toward T5s, but Id sure like to hear from someone thats running LED's to find out how thats working for them.
I'd like to pull the trigger pretty soon here, but Id sure like to hear your opinions on whats working for you.
Thanks
Brad