Stupid question about t5's
 

I know this is a really dumb question, but my brain isn't working properly (that's my story and I'm sticking to it) :silly: :

How long can you run your t5 bulbs (normal usage for a reef tank, in say a Tek fixture-stock not overdriven to heck and back) before you need to replace them? I have heard everything from 6 months to two years and this seems like the best place to get that info.

Thanks all.

From what I have read, I plan to change mine around the 10-12 month mark. Totally necessary? Maybe not, but you will get the most from the lights that way I figure. Plus the price of bulbs arent too* bad. You could always do one at a time over say a month till they are all new.

HTH!

I change mine at 8 months, although from my understanding they are ok to go 12 months. I'd rather be safe than sorry...newer are always better.

Those who sell T5's claims that white bulbs run 24 month blue/actinics are 18 month.
However if you read German forums they change every 6 month.
So i guess 10-12 month is OK, say every Boxing Day.
But these are only like $24 (in my case), so if one wants to change earlier to get most out of the bulb then sure why not?