Converting PC to T5 - is it possible?

[g8rorchid]

I have a Coralife fixture (Aqualight pro) which consists of 2 150W DE MH bulbs and 2 96W PC bulbs. From what I've gathered (correct me if I'm wrong), actinic/blue T5s will give a more vibrant/deep blue color than PCs. Would they be similar to the color/pop you get from blue LEDs? Sooo would it be possible to somehow change out the PC for T5s in this fixture?? If so, would it be complicated? I should mention that I am a woman and not well versed in the world of DIY or electrical work (I hope I didn't set back women by 50 years with that).

Thanks in advance!

 

[Mw1981]

If you aren't comfortable with DIY or electrical, I would pass..would need new ballast for the t5s as well as new endcaps.

 

[g8rorchid]

Would it be difficult? The current ballast wouldn't be able to run the T5s? There are 2 96W PCs that I would replace with 2 54W T5s.

 

[theatrus]

Would it be difficult? The current ballast wouldn't be able to run the T5s? There are 2 96W PCs that I would replace with 2 54W T5s.

New ballast would be required (or super strongly suggested).

Biggest difficulty would be the mechanics: mounting everything securely.

 

[billdogg]

You will have to replace the ballast. Ballasts are made to run a specific type of bulb and usually are not interchangeable. Wiring the new one really is not that hard - it will have a diagram on it to assist you, and it may even be available at HD/Lowes. IF (thats a BIG IF) you can find someone there who knows what they are doing they should be able to match you up with what you need. As mentioned above - mounting the new endcaps will probably be the most difficult part of the problem, and even that shouldn't be too hard.

 

[bhbell]

I'm planning the same mod on my Hamilton mh/pc fixture In a couple weeks. It's also a 48 inch fixture so should be pretty comparable to yours. I'll send you some part numbers and pics if you would like when I get going with the project.

 

[g8rorchid]

Thanks for all of the replies! So I would need a ballast, end caps, anything else? Would I need to replace the reflectors in the fixture? I also think that 1 pc bulb is about the width of 2 t5 bulbs, so I'm thinking 4 t5 bulbs would be better. That would be a total of 216 watts. Any idea which ballast I would need? Where would you all suggest I shop/look?

bhbell - that would be AWESOME! Thanks!