IluvGod'sreefs
New member
I'm considering changing from VHO's to Compact Fluorescent on my 55 reef. Anyone have any thoughts about this? I'd appreciate any and all feedback.
Thanks
Thanks
Lighting Change
- Thread starter IluvGod'sreefs
- Start date
zachfishman
Active member
What do you have now and what were you planning on switching to (bulb configuration-wise)? If you're looking to upgrade, I suggest diving in to T5s!
EDIT: and what are you currently growing /wish to grow?
EDIT: and what are you currently growing /wish to grow?
IluvGod'sreefs
New member
I have 220 watts of vho's. I found a 260 watt PC retrofit that I like. I have tried T5's before and did not have good luck with them.
IluvGod'sreefs
New member
I have mostly softies and a candy cane coral.
zachfishman
Active member
I doubt you'll notice any difference between 260watts of PC vs 220 watts of VHO (which is plenty for a 55 BTW).
Out of curiosity, what T5 setup did you try on your 55? I assume it was a 4-bulb, did it have individual reflectors on each bulb (a near-necessity I hear). Also, did you use the stock bulbs that came with it or did you custom pick aftermarket bulbs? There's ton of discussion on this in the T5Q&A thread - it makes all the difference in both color output and PAR.
Out of curiosity, what T5 setup did you try on your 55? I assume it was a 4-bulb, did it have individual reflectors on each bulb (a near-necessity I hear). Also, did you use the stock bulbs that came with it or did you custom pick aftermarket bulbs? There's ton of discussion on this in the T5Q&A thread - it makes all the difference in both color output and PAR.
IluvGod'sreefs
New member
It was Current USA fixture, and when I tried to change the bulbs the bulb sockets broke. I have had PC's before and just liked them better.
greech
New member
I had PCs and went to T5's and never looked back. The bulb options you have with T5 is a huge plus and the par increase has allowed me to keep SPS. I have also pbserved better growth all around.
Most T5 sockets are on springs so you have to push them back, slide the bulb and when you twist it in the place the spring pops back to secure the bulb in place.
How much are you looking to spend on the PC fixture?
Most T5 sockets are on springs so you have to push them back, slide the bulb and when you twist it in the place the spring pops back to secure the bulb in place.
How much are you looking to spend on the PC fixture?
IluvGod'sreefs
New member
About $200.00
IluvGod'sreefs
New member
Thanks for the feedback Greech and zachfishman, I really appreciate it!
TheFishMan65
New member
Not on your list, but have you considered DIYing your LED rig. It might be more than $200, but you won't have to buy bulbs in a year. Having seen the color under some this weekend at a frag fest I am impressed. I was already going that route, but it just mad me happier.
