Refugium macro algae light time period. . .

[Chaotic Reefer4u]

should i leave the lights on 24/7 or on during the day and off at night?
What are the benefits of either? Pro's and Con's. . .

 

[jahmic]

Some do the 24/7 thing...

I run my fuge light opposite the lights in the display, so off in the day and on a night. Although the effect is limited, it can help stabilize pH this way by consuming CO2 being released by corals/algae at night in the display.

Also...plants need a rest too and don't get light 24/7 in nature. My macros always seemed healthier with the reverse photoperiod rather than being blasted by light all day.

 

[Chaotic Reefer4u]

Thanks for the advice jahmic, i will now turn them off during the night

 

[jahmic]

No prob...but I think you have it backwards? Most run the fuge lights ON at night and OFF during the day. My fuge light comes on about an hour before the main tank lights shut down, and stays on an hour into the main lights turning back on.

 

[Chaotic Reefer4u]

Gotcha, i will turn on during the night and off during the day. Lol