Size help for my 20g

Debating on two diff size fixtures AquaticLife T5 HO 4-Lamp Light Fixtures w/ Lunar LEDs

The light that came with my 20g petco tank sits right ontop of aquarium and has the same size bulb as the 20" fixture listed above and spread seems fine. The 20" fixture is $70 less than the 24". The 20" wont isnt quite big enough to fit tank but can purchase $30 hang kit.

1. Tank specs = 24"x12.5"x14" (height from sand)
2. 20" fixture wo legs = 19.5"x10.25"x3.25" length w/legs 21.75"
3. 24" fixture wo legs = 23.5"x10.25"x3.25" length w/legs 25.75"

Should i get hang kit or spend the extra $40 to get 24". Afraid of 24 looking too big and putting out to much unneccessary light outside tank and the 20" being to small for good lighting. Need seasoned opinion as im new to lighting.

 

dude, for that price I'd get this
reefbreeders
and be able to grow ANYTHING and not have to worry about bulb replacements every 9 months

 

Not a bad looking led. Is there any way to hook it up to automaticlly do sunrise-midday-moonlight. Or can I only have 2 setting and have to adjust every night to get moonlight effect. Also would i need independent timers hooked up to outlet. Or is ther a decent controller available?

Does anyone know how long the light will last because i really cant offor to replace the fixture till atleast a 3 year mark.

 

The LED should last close to 10 years.

If you go with T5 the 24" fixture will be fine. There should be minimal light spillage if you use the leg kit or place the fixture on the tank.

 

Thank you for the replies. I probably should have mentioned that my biggest attraction to the t5 was the built in lcd controller 3 channel, 1ch=2bulb, 2ch=other 2 bulbs, 3ch= moonlight on/off with individual timing for each, even retains info in small power outages. Trying to figure out a way to get a similar effect with the led then my choice will be clear.

I know this is off topic of T5 but what do you think of the reefbreeder 120w controllable version for $320. If fixture last as advertised then i will save money after the first 2 years are up on bulbs. Theres also powe consumption, heat, and ability to grow anything That comes with the LED. The 24" T5 Was $270 not including shipping.

 

you can add the controllable models for $99 I believe and the get a apex controller or similar