Lighting options - cheap is the key...

needcash

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Jun 20, 2005
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Im looking for a way to light a tank (16" deep x 18" long 7.5" wide). Now i know there are 14" or 16" strip lights but those are around $30. Do i have any other options for alot less $$$$$?

also where can i find my alternative. Big als doesnt have 16" ones that i can find
 
Lighting to support what? If you're just looking to see the fish, any lighting that doesn't produce a ton of heat will work (check out WalMart for fluorescents). If you want it to support plants, then you need to consider spectrum, and that will be more limiting.
 
So, pretty well any lighting will work. I'd avoid incandescents based on heat output, but just go shopping and see what you find. You'll have to mount the light so it's protected from water and humidity, but that's not tough.
 
I am using a floor book-lamp with fluorescent 'bulb' on a 10G. It is pretty cheap if you don't insist on mounting something directly on top of the tank.
 
I'm using a Home Depot strip light with a 15 w bulb over my newt tank. It doesn't look great but I needed something covered since the tank has a screen lid. I also use a compact fluorescent like RanchuRick in a wall mounted lamp.
 
I use these on all 3 of my tanks, there walmart 13inch strips for $8.88. Quite a good deal and they work great. There made to go underneath cabnits in the kitchen.
 
Saw 13" flourescent under cabinet lights at walmart today, $8. Even came with a bulb, but you may want a different/better one.
 
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