cheap lighting for FOWLR?

[disisgustavo]

instead of paying $50+ for aquarium brand flourecsent lights, would it be ok to just get an acrylic or glass top sheet and set some regular flourescent lights like this on them?

they look a lot like the flourecent lights you buy from fish stores, but a hell of a lot cheaper. here is the info

This fluorescent shop light with instant-on electronic ballast provides long lasting bright light while maintainnig its energy efficiency. In addition to its high-quality steel construction, it features 12 In. exta wide reflector and the added convenience of a pull chain switch. This shop light is perfect for use as a work light in your basements, work areas, laundry rooms, recreational areas or attics where a bright natural light is desired.

• Extra long 5 Ft. power cord
• Pull chain switch
• Extra wide 12 In. reflector
• Operates in cold weather down to 0° F
• Instant-on electronic ballast
• High-quality steel construction
• Uses 2-48 In. 32 Watt T8 fluorescent tubes (not included)
• Energy Star approved
• Hardware and chain included
• Fixture Dimensions: 48 In. L x 12 In.W x 4 In.H

Internet/Catalog #100095734
Store In-Stock SKU # 140857

they are only 13 bucks each. also anyone know whether they might get too hot or what?

 

[Max]

Lol, no way will they get as hot as halides. It depends on what you want to grow in the tank. If it's fish only you could use those lights but, if you want inverts they won't work. I'd hang them from the ceiling instead of putting them on a sheet of glass but, that's just me and my poor engenering skills. I'm going to move this to marine diy so that you get better answers.
hth
max

 

[oscar83]

i dont understand how that can get as hot as MH's. It's only t-8 fluo bulbs. i have 8 t-8s on my tank and it definetly doesnt get anywhere near as hot as any halide ive ever seen. im confused

 

[disisgustavo]

he said that they dont get as hot as mh's. so then this would work well for lighting then?

 

[doggiestlist]

the problem with normal shop lights is that they are not moisture proof(ends) .for lighting all you need is low wattage fixture my first 6 ft tank consisted of 3 -24 in 18 watt fixtures and i still had great coraline and plant growth

 

[oscar83]

haha, dyslexia mustve kicked in when i read that. makes sense now.