Difference between T5s and T8s,12s

[je1683]

What are the differences between T5 lamps and the T8s and T12? I get a decent discount at Lowe's and they don't seem to handle T5s.4

Thanks
Joe

 

[Jefe12234]

The number refers to the diameter of the bulb in 1/8's of an inch, so T5 = 5/8", T8 = 1", and T12 = 1.5". The smaller bulbs are more efficient because they block less reflected light. Also, most T5's used for aquariums are high output meaning they use more power than a standard T5.

 

[reefpatrol3]

size as posted above, also with the smaller bulbs you can get more in there and have individual reflectors

 

[redfishsc]

T8's a good bulbs and you can actually grow some nice soft coral under them (certain varieties like mushrooms and leathers), but that's about it.


T5HO is a totally different animal, and they ROCK. GREAT lights and very close to MH in light output capabilities.

 

[Reefer08]

I thought that T5's have a wider projection of light vs the T8 and T12.