What lighting do YOU prefer?
- Thread starter Dwarf Puffers
- Start date
I try to make my choices appropriate for the tank dimensions, tech level, and energy efficiency. For example I wouldn't use high output T5's on a shallow tank, because even if I significantly raised the light up to reduce the intensity delivered it would be a waste of electricity. Various forms of CFL's are usually the most cost effective, and size appropriate choice for nano tanks (I'd love to do LED's but I'm not that DIY capable). I use an elevated 13W T2 HO fluorescent on my low tech shrimp tank instead of the (shorter) 15W T8 that came with the kit. In other words: pick your lighting based upon your budget, needs, and environmental concern.
There is a lot more to lighting than just the type of lamp you use anyway. Reflector design and quality can make a big difference in terms of lighting effeciency. CFL's, and tubes aligned next to each other tend to lose light due to restrike. Aquarium covers, and tannins can play a part in reducing light available. Height of the fixture over the aquarium is another effeciency factor, and can affect how light is spread throughout the tank.
There is a lot more to lighting than just the type of lamp you use anyway. Reflector design and quality can make a big difference in terms of lighting effeciency. CFL's, and tubes aligned next to each other tend to lose light due to restrike. Aquarium covers, and tannins can play a part in reducing light available. Height of the fixture over the aquarium is another effeciency factor, and can affect how light is spread throughout the tank.
I use 2 spiral CFLs over a 10g, works great. I like regular T-8 & T-12 but my new T-5 HOs are best over a 4 ft tank. PC was a bit of a letdown.
JakeJ
Pubished in TFH!
i wouldnt say that. there have their draw backs though. it gets a good amount of light over small tanks. you also dont always need t5 ho also.
I have a double T5H0 on my 75g, and it can only grow low-medium light plants. I don't know if it's the play sand, but any difficult plants I've put in there have died. I would add compact fluorescents to it, but I don't really feel like electrical DIY.
That's why I posted "other". Last time I tried lasers, my sharks super glued them to their heads.
In general. I'm no lighting nerd, thus I posted other for the things I'm unaware of (although I forgot about metal halide).
That's why I posted "other". Last time I tried lasers, my sharks super glued them to their heads.
In general. I'm no lighting nerd, thus I posted other for the things I'm unaware of (although I forgot about metal halide).
well depending on the tank will depend on what i would prefer..... small tanks cfl are nice since its easy and cheap..... T5 ho are great in most other cases.... MH has its place maybe in larger tanks but they are hot and not as efficient. LED is coming along and at some point will be the best option.
