Lighting

[timberwollf]

im looking at a new lighting system 48' High output 216w Econ 4x54w bulbs
Says its a T5 HO whats everyone think? i need quick reply before i buy it

 

[returnofsid]

What brand fixture is it? With T5s it's very important that each bulb be individually reflected. This is usually accomplished by the reflector being bent "gull wing" around each bulb. Lower quality fixtures just have a flat reflector, which isn't near as effective. Sunlight Supply's Tek5 is one of the standards in T5 lighting. Hope that helps.

 

[timberwollf]

its a Cichlid Odyssea , light fixture what do you think

 

[returnofsid]

Just did a google search for it, which gave me several ebay links, which is where I assume you found it. I would question if it's UL listed since the ad doesn't mention it. The ad also doesn't mention anything about reflectors. Most quality lighting fixtures will discuss both of those things in the ads. Personally, I'd steer clear of it. On the other hand, it's not my money I'm spending either...lol. I have a 75 gallon reef tank with a Tek5 6 bulb fixture on it. I love it.

 

[timberwollf]

returnofsid i sent you a message

 

[returnofsid]

responded. Also keep in mind that with this bulb configuration, you're only getting 108 watts of lighting that'll be useful for corals. Actinics look nice but really don't do anything for coral growth.