Setting up T5's in my canopy...

[MikeP471612]

I want to set up a T5 ballast and bulbs (4 pin 24 inch bulb) for my 30g tank. I can buy the supplies at a local light store. My current canopy/light holder can be gutted and there should be plenty of room to fit two bulbs and I can locate the ballast elsewhere. I need to know if heat will become an issue and also if this is a typical way of doing it. I don't want to build a new canopy if I don't have to because this tank will be tanken down in a few months when I set up my new bigger one. I am still a newbie so If you think I am doing something wrong or could do things differently/better please let me know.

Any help/info would be great
Thanks

PS the current light holder for my canopy measures 28"long, 4.5"deep, and 2.5"high.

 

[MikeP471612]

I just got of the phone with a guy from a LFS and he says he can sell me a couple of 50/50 compact flourescents (I think they are coralife bulbs) that would do the same job. It would cost me about 20 bucks more but all I have to do is screw them in.

What should I do?

 

[SCR]

If you have the time and know how do it your self. Other wise spend the extra 20 bucks.

 

[MikeP471612]

Ya I cando it myself. How does this sound for equiptment needed. A light store here in town will sell me a workhorse 33 ballast, 18in actinic bulb(55watts), the socket and clip for 40 bucks. I might be able to fit 2 bulbs, would it be better to go with two 18in one daylight and one actinic?

Thanks

PS I could fit a bulb up to 24 inches in there. What should I do? Which set up sounds the best?

 

[MikeP471612]

Won't be able to fit 2 bulbs. I can go with either and 18in or a 24in bulb. And either daylight or actinic (55 watts). Whats the best way to go?

Thanks

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=7954061#post7954061 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by MikeP471612
Ya I cando it myself. How does this sound for equiptment needed. A light store here in town will sell me a workhorse 33 ballast, 18in actinic bulb(55watts), the socket and clip for 40 bucks. I might be able to fit 2 bulbs, would it be better to go with two 18in one daylight and one actinic?

Thanks

PS I could fit a bulb up to 24 inches in there. What should I do? Which set up sounds the best?

 

[latazyo]

I wouldnt get pc over t5

if you're getting your parts at a lighting store make sure you get waterproof endcaps...not sure if they'd have them or not