24" tubes

[debaric]

So I adopted a 48" light strip along with my 75 gallon tank. It can house 2 24" 20 watt flourescent tubes, however the current ones that came with it have 24" T-10's. I looked and they didnt have T-10 bulbs anywhere for a 24" light so I went to wallmart and bought a T-12 to see if it would fit and I brought it home and not only fit but it lit up nicely.

Here is my question, since a T-8 is better than a T-12, can I fit that into the hood since its also the right length and wattage? Does the bulb thickness matter? I know that a T-8 is more efficient and will get more light into the actual tank. please help.

Thanks,

Chris

 

[Mgamer20o0]

this might help you with light questions. http://woo.gotdns.com/Aquarium/Lighting.htm

all the bulbs are the same size thickness wise. the t8 bulbs are less watts but put out more light.

 

[phanmc]

I don't believe T8 bulbs will work with a ballast that's designed for T10 or T12, though a T10 will work with a T12 ballast and vice versa.

 

[wesleydnunder]

all the bulbs are the same size thickness wise. the t8 bulbs are less watts but put out more light.

Incorrect. T8 lamps are a half inch smaller in diameter than T12. Also T8's are used with electronic ballasts in stead of magnetic.

 

[Mgamer20o0]

wesleydnunder is right. another reason why i should really learn to go back and read what i type. i forgot 2 words and it changed everything i was saying. length wise but not thickness or diameter wise. thanks for keeping me in check.