Cheap 6 bulb t5

Well I cant say that I have made it because I have not but I am thinking about it! LOL Recently built a canopy for my 90g and thinking about switching from PC to T5 lights. While looking around I found this........



Although not the best picture here is the canopy I built last time I was home from work.



For about 230 bucks I can get the fixture with a clear acrylic cover for the bulbs and a 10ft cord. I already have some fans at the house I could install into the canopy if needed and even think I would set a few of the bulbs with a delay so they dont all come on at once.

I just recently bought a 125g and I am trying to save money for that yet still upgrade the 90g with a few things here and there. Hence the reason I am looking for a DIY cheaper light setup. The 90g is 18" wide and the lights are also which leads me to think this would make a pretty good setup.

Any input?

 

They may not be the best but any upgrade from PC to T5 is an improvement.

The real question is whats the final plan for that tank? I think for the moment I would not spend anything on the lights till you decide that. Then put the money you saved into buying the best light for that goal once instead of upgrading 3 times so the total cost comes out double what buying the final fixture the first time would be.

 

I agree with Telgar. Think about what you want your final tank to hold and than save up for the equipment that will be needed.
The problem with cheap t5 fixtures is the ballast that will be used. They often dont provide the watts needed for each bulb to perform as well as they say. i.e 6x 56w t5 bulbs may only get 50w each (or less, just an example) with a cheap ballast. Nova Extreme t5 fixtures have this issue as well i think. I have heard great things about TEK T5 lighting and people have kept thriving sps with them. BUT they are much more $$$$$ but you are paying for much better stuff.

 

Guess you guys are probably right and I should just buy a marine fixture. I mean its not much cheaper honestly and really the only reason aside from saving 100 bucks or so was I just like tinkering with stuff! LOL

The tank for now is the only one up and running but eventually will end up just being a misc tank. Might put it in the little ones room or something I really dont know. I would ultimately like to have both be mixed reef tanks with fish.

 

Look into this one

Catalina Aquarium

If you call the company you can get it for a better price. I have the 8 bulb 24" fixture and it is awesome. I think i paid like 350 for it and the original price was like 450. with moons and dimmer.