Replacement Question

What's up Sarge? I'd say 6-8 months. More on the 6 month side depending on the amount of time they are on.

 

I saw it in one of your posts after coming back from Iraq. I'd be careful when you replace your bulbs. Acclimate them to your tank, so, you don't get a gnarly algae bloom. As for the actinics, I'm not sure. I'd get on those bulbs though. Your tank is going to look brand new. Your corals will probably be stoked to.

 

I wouldn't worry about that. If MH's, yes. I'd still replace your bulbs ASAP though.
Actinic Light I copied this from a WEB-Site
Actinic light promotes the growth of Zoaxanthellae algae, essential for the growth and well-being of all photosynthetic corals and invertebrates (not macro algae). However, Actinic and strong blue spectrum lighting is visibly blue and will definitely need a full spectrum bulb to help offset the color distortion.

If your reef or marine tank appears too blue, balance its visible spectrum with a more intense daylight bulb or add another daylight bulb to the group. 5,000K-6,000K is usually pretty good. However, remember that macro algae can be a problem. Too much "daylight" (with enhanced red spectrum) will promote plant growth, and macro-algae responds similarly. A good rule of thumb is to use one actinic lamp and one or two daylight lamps for each 30 gallons of water.

 

I don't. I have never bought anything on-line. I'd start by checking some of 3reef's sponsors.