Changing T5 Bulbs

[RossW]

How often do you change your T5 bulbs?  How often do you think they should be changed for optimum growth, etc.

Ross

[Zzippper]

I have no 1st hand experience - but I've read they last from 12 to 18 months or so. I think this depends on how well cooled they are as cooling extends life and increases PAR output. Probably 12 if they are not cooled and 18 if they are.

Z

[RossW]

That is consistent with my understanding also, but again not first hand experience...

I have no 1st hand experience - but I've read they last from 12 to 18 months or so. I think this depends on how well cooled they are as cooling extends life and increases PAR output. Probably 12 if they are not cooled and 18 if they are.

Z

[North]

T5 bulbs last roughly 14 months.

I would recommend to change once a year.

THe reason for this recommendation is that as the bulbs get older the Phosphors begin degrade and this in turn can cause an algae bloom/outbreak.

So once a year is ideal once evevery 14 months is necessary to ensure unwanted algae growth.

[ray]

Hi I just got off the phone w/ the rep from Sunlight Supply,so I asked his opinion on the Giesemann bulbs.He said that the pure actinic degrade quicker and should be replaced at 1yr as for the other bulbs 1  1/2 yrs should not be a problem.That being said he replaces his on a yearly basis.In my own coral tank which is for holding only, I have bulbs going on 3 yrs old.I have no significant algae build up either,in fact the sides have never been cleaned.

Ray

[tskinner]

Personally I'm at the 9 month mark and will be swapping mine this weekend.  Not mainly because of the age but because I want a different bulb combo also.

[az]

depends, some chinese T5 bulbs are no good after 8 months.

[RossW]

I am running a combo of ATI, Geissman, and UVL.

depends, some chinese T5 bulbs are no good after 8 months.