Determine age of AI SOL?

[azsoccerpop]

Is there a place on the AI SOL to determine how old they are. It is my understanding that all LEDs have a life expectancy and the lights will fade reducing growth and causing increased algae. I have 2 SOL blues over my 90G now and was considering adding a 3rd to reduce shadowing on the sides.market sesm to be around $100 which closer to my budget than Hydra 52 Hds right now.

 

[mcgyvr]

While there may be a manufacturing date/serial number from the manufacturer that still doesn't tell you if they ran for 4 hours a day or 12 hours a day nor at 2% or 50% or 100% strength..
LED lifespan is highly dependent on LED junction temperature over time and if you follow the LED manufacturers rating (many don't) then you can get 50k hours or whatever its rated for..

But there is no easy button here..
I'd say that after 8-10 years you will want to think about replacing them..

 

[azsoccerpop]

Thank You. Happy New Year

 

[GimpyFin]

You might be able to shoot the serial numbers to AI to see if they can tell you for sure. I think the SOL blues came out around the end of 2010 and were superseded by the Vega about 2 years later. AI also sells parts on their website (Power supplies, light pucks, lenses, etc.) for a lot of the lights too, but it's usually hit and miss as the selection is limited on what they offer.

 

[Chris Mills]

I have 2 SOL blues over my 90G now and was considering adding a 3rd to reduce shadowing on the sides.

Add T5's to reduce your shadowing. It will totally make a difference.