lighting

[dreamzcape]

hello bros, just like to gather opinions on lighting. my current setup is a 2x1x1.5. Initially i considered using 2 x t5 HO 20000k and 10000k. However, due to $$$ constraints and a more important concern of heat, i was wondering if i can get away with 1 actinic PL and 1 white PL. Why such consideration is because my scaping is built high and i intend to keep most corals within 10 or max 12 inches from the lighting. Hoping to keep easier sps and a few hardier corals.

Also, i was wondering in this case whether or not to use t5 NO or PL....which one would provide more penetration?

Any views please post, because I am trying to plan lighting needs so that corals won't suffer.

thanks in advance guys

[blueheaven]

You can try DIYing your T5 set

IMO, PLs are too expensive to change and they are not as bright as a good T5 HO

[Clownfish]

PL r hotter than T5s...

go for T5 HO direct... T5 NO r too dim..

like blueheaven said, u can DIY ur own T5...

more cost effective in the long run too....

FYI, actinic PL can cost $40-50... a T5 actinic cost $18

PL hav to be changed every 4 - 6mths while T5 can last over a year

[ervine]

right now HO T5s are so cheap it's not worth getting PLs anymore... one PL tube cost abt 20-25 bucks.. T5s are about the same if not less..

[dreamzcape]

wow....alright....more opinions please....learning new things everyday....didn't know 2ft PL hotter than 2ft T5 HO. and also the cost of the tubes...thanks bros and keep them coming

[Kelmen]

If you concern over heat using T5, here's my experience:

I'm using 5 T5 HO, 4 white (4') and 1 blue actinic (3')

running 1 fan only.

main tank 4' x 1.5' x 2' H.

Temperature at max is 30 Celcius.

Got some simple soft coral, no big deal.

Well, the temperature may depend on your tank placement too, like airy or hot.