Which Kelvin for Refugium

Discussion in 'Refugium' started by stud_man50, Dec 28, 2009.

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  1. stud_man50

    stud_man50 Flamingo Tongue

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    I just recently built a light fixture for my refugium and bought 2, 2700K CFL's I got that from reading about Algae Scrubbers, should I have bought a different Kelvin? I built it from spotlight fixtures, $1 and the rest screwed into 1/2" PVC pipe.
     

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  3. Dingo

    Dingo Giant Squid

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    the perfect color is 5400K... you can often find 5500K or 6500K bulbs at home depot or walmart which work great too
     
  4. NASAGeek

    NASAGeek Eyelash Blennie

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    I have read both the 2700K for Algae scrubbers and the 5500K for refugiums. I, personally, would run a test since you already have the 2700K. See how it goes... next bulb change try 5500K.... see how it goes. I'd be interested in the result and comparison if you can detect one.

    M
     
  5. lunatik_69

    lunatik_69 Giant Squid

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    It has been my exp. that a bulb that has between 5500K-6500K works best. You can even go with a 7100K bulb too, which is what I have now. But as always, every system is different.



    Luna
     
  6. stud_man50

    stud_man50 Flamingo Tongue

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    I was planning on building a algae scrubber, maybe I should make it now and use those bulbs and then just buy some 5500K for the refugium. I guess that means I have to run to homedepot.. i've been looking everywhere, do you guys have to order online for your bulbs? or which one do you get from home depot that is 5500k, I found one thats suppose to be "N:vision" but the website doesnt have it in the description?
     
    Last edited: Dec 29, 2009
  7. seabass1

    seabass1 Montipora Digitata

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    Yup, you are on the right track my friend!!! I'm putting 2 2800K on my scrubber.

    Good Luck! 8)
     
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  9. NASAGeek

    NASAGeek Eyelash Blennie

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    Home Depot carries a compact flourescent that is 5500K. I just bought one for my refugium.

    M
     
  10. NASAGeek

    NASAGeek Eyelash Blennie

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  11. stud_man50

    stud_man50 Flamingo Tongue

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    Thanks mmcdonald I'll have to swing buy and look at them.
     
  12. bje

    bje Long-fin Bannerfish

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    all i need is 6500k for my fuge.. hrmm why'd they include a light fixture for mine that has two 12000k pc bulbs?