Are simple shop lights okay??

[wespastor]

Yes, I have used them in the past with great success. And it also depend on what you are trying to accomplish with the lights.

Best wishes,
Wes

 

[killacross]

ive used them with great success...then decided to buy 2-2bulb shoplights

gut them for the ballasts...and finally built my own hood....now Im considering upgrading again to make a suspended canopy over a bigger tank

 

[verbal]

If you want a compact design as much light as possible t5 high output is the way to go. However if you want to go a more economical route, then shoplights are a great option. If you only have 2 bulbs, you should stick with low light plants.

With 4 bulbs, you might be able to try moderate light plants. I would experiment with something cheap first, before going crazy with more demanding plants.

 

[noodles62]

I have a shop light suspended over my tank, with T5's and my plants do fantastic (w/out CO2). The light is grey with a red center so it even matches my decor. We bought small linked, black chain and hung it from the ceiling. When I do a water change I just move the light up on the chain (on hooks of course!) to get it out of my way. Works like a charm!

 

[Lillyan]

I use them on all my tanks, plants grow very well and I only add Leaf Zone. Just get the 5600 lights not the 4100, the latter is a bit yellow and not as nice and bright.
55gal with one fixture that holds 2 bulbs, 4ft 80watts. And two fixtures with 4 bulbs total with 160watts, sand substrate and only add liquid Leaf Zone, plants grow huge and forest-like. You really do not need specialty items to grow plants, unless you pick the few plants that actually need it.