Lighting questions

danny zubot · #1 12-24-2009, 08:45 PM

As far as light intensity is concerned, how do T5's compare to MH? For example, would 4x 24 watt 10000K compare to a 150 watt MH?

FitoPharmer · #2 12-24-2009, 10:28 PM

the best part to T5's IMO is you can overdrive the bulbs, so if you run 4 24W bulbs on 2 dual 36W ballasts they would match the intensity of a 150W or exceed it. the bulbs would only need to be changed a little more often.

Delphinus · #3 12-25-2009, 05:45 AM

I'd say it depends, but the basic gyst is yes it compares. The thing with T5's is you can cover the square footage of the tank with lights, so it's a pretty even intensity.

In the whole T5 vs halide question I don't really consider one better than the other. I like both, I don't really think one trumps the other in all scenarios. At $25 per lamp with 4 of them, for example, the cost of a complete lamp change-out is pretty much the same as replacing a halide.

Ran 4x24w over a 20g for a while and was able to pretty much keep anything in that tank.

lorenz0 · #4 12-25-2009, 06:25 AM

all depends what 4x24 watt fixture it is. depends on what type of reflectors it has. a single reflector fixture, nope. a Individual reflector fixture, yes. also depends on your bulb combo. Some t5 guys run pure actinic's to bring the par down for lower light corals while others would only run like a actinic plus to still get the highest par as possiable.

schroeder · #5 12-25-2009, 08:47 AM

T5 means no shimmer i.e. refraction lines...

I'm moving from flourescent to halide because of the look that halide gives, regardless of intensity.

danny zubot · #6 12-26-2009, 04:19 AM

I would miss the shimmering effect that MH gives, but I kind of want to try something new. I have 2 24 watt T5 actinics right now so I could devote all four bulbs to a full sprectum of bulbs. I have an SPS dominated tank though and I'm worried that 6 t5's won't be enough. Currently I'm using a 400 watt light, but have to keep all of my corals low in the tank to prevent burning.

Regarding overdriving these bulbs; would I be able to do this with my Workhorse 7 ballast, or would that be too much? Sorry, I'm limited with my electrical knowledge.