Quick Question on Lighting

Im upgrading to 55 gal tank.
Which would be better light
216 watt t5 or 260 watt power compacts.

 

T5's. Which fixtures are you looking at getting?

 

48 inch nova extreme 4 bulb t5 light

 

i would suggest a tek. You can probably find a good one on ebay.

 

If you are set on getting the Nova then make sure you get one of the newer ones with individual reflectors. If not then get the Tek because it is worth the money.

 

T5 over Pc, look for single lamp reflectors, Tek IS good Aquactinics are fantastic also but a little more $$, make sure you get GOOD bulbs and whatever you do DON'T SKIMP!!

Good luck

 

Tek or new wave are best way to go imo and don't accept any bulbs other than UVL anything else and you'll be disappointed

 

Iraf and those UVL's Gieseman and ATI are also fantastic and in MOST peoples eyes highly superior UVL

Good Luck

 

I have ati's in my 36" fixture and have for the last 2 bulb changes, I've actually been kind of unhappy with them lately though the last set I bought I've been having issues with them burning out which is weird

 

Bulb cooling can be an issue, esp w/ fixtures, if I remember correctly ATI need to be cooled the length of the bulb whereas the Giesemans need to be cooled at the ends.