Replacing T5 bulbs.

[Andyr005]

I just picked up some t5 fixtures. They had bulbs in them but being that I don't have much experience with T5s, how do I know when to replace them? What happens if I let them get old?

 

[mcgyvr]

In general the light output will decrease.. (need par or lux meter to measure)
They typically have a lifespan of 7-12 months for our needs..

You may be able to notice changes in your coral or increased algae growth,etc.. when they start to go..

With any "used" fixture unless you know they just put new bulbs in recently its probably best to get new ones..

 

[Ifeelsick]

Hi mcgyvr, hope you can help me. My Iquatic's bulb's are 10 month's old, and i was just wondering if these bulb's wouldn't last as long as the more expensive ati bulbs. Like you said, they should last around 7 - 12 month's but is that in general or do cheaper bulb's need to be replaced sooner.

Thanks

 

[mcgyvr]

In general the bulbs last 7-12 months.. But using a lux meter (cheap on Amazon,etc..) would be a good way to know when they need to be replaced but you need to know the reading when they are new and keep checking..

If your bulbs are 10 months old then its probably not a bad idea to pick up new ones and a lux meter and start fresh..

 

[Ifeelsick]

Thanks