what should I get

Discussion in 'T5 Aquarium Lighting' started by Kevin_E, Apr 2, 2012.

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  1. Kevin_E

    Kevin_E Giant Squid

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    What do you think about the 28 watts that an actinic and a 10,000 k would provide? I could get 48 total watts if I were to spend 3 more dollars total. Still doesn't seem like a lot.
     
    Last edited: Apr 9, 2012
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  3. 2in10

    2in10 Super Moderator

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    The wattage should work fine. The only way to get 48 watts is if the ballast is rated to produce that power which it is most likely not since the fixture uses 14 watt bulbs.
     
  4. Kevin_E

    Kevin_E Giant Squid

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    Sufficient enough to house an anemone and possibly (a very small possibility) an acropora down the road?
     
  5. Kevin_E

    Kevin_E Giant Squid

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    I got my answers, which is no.
     
  6. Kevin_E

    Kevin_E Giant Squid

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    How can I check the wattage capacity? The website I linked in the first page offers lights for 24" fixtures (which I have) that have 24 watts.

    Here is the excerpt:

    "The Coralife 22 inch, 10K, 24 Watt T5 HO Fluorescent Lamps are 22 inches from end of pin to end of pin (for 24 inch fixtures/retrofits).

    The Coralife T5 bulbs will work in any T5 fixture, as long as you are using bulbs of the same wattage as those currently in your fixture. T5 bulbs come in two categories, HO bulbs (24W, 31W, 39W or 54W) and NOs (9W, 14W, 21W or 28W). T5s are 5/8" or .625" in diameter."

    I have read that a general rule of thumb is that you should have 4-6 watts per gallon. By that rule of thumb, I should have 80-120 watts instead of 28 watts that I currently have.