T5 ballasts

[Capt_Cully]

I'm not very well versed with electronics. I'm adding 2 more retrofit T5s to my tank and need a ballast. Can anyone recommend a good one that's easy to wire up? I think most are pretty similar yes? Not looking for dimable. Just want yo run 2 T5. Probably HO too right?

Thanks!

 

[LQT]

Whatever you do, in order to ensure optimum bulb life, make sure you get programmed start ballasts. BRS sells the HEP ballasts used by ATI fixtures. Even better, look at the Philips Advance Centium ballasts.

 

[Capt_Cully]

I saw the ATI HO ones. Looked inexpensive, which I can live with. Unless I was looking at the wrong one. Like $26?

 

[LQT]

Assuming that you need the 4' 54 watt T5 bulbs for the 120 gallon tank in your signature, then these are the ones...

http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/2x54w-t5-high-output-ballast-ati.html

 

[Capt_Cully]

Yes! Nice, that's the one I was looking at. Thanks.

 

[moondoggy4]

http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/t5-ho-miro-4-retrofit-kit-let-lighting.html Easiest and the best, only thing easier is a Arco ballast w/wiring harness and VHO bulbs.

 

[DBR_reef]

I just bought the ati ones for a bad ballast in a fixture- they were easy and cheap


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[LED Jack]

You can buy a T5 HO fixture from Menards, Home Depot, or Lowes and use the ballasts out of them.

 

[LQT]

You can buy a T5 HO fixture from Menards, Home Depot, or Lowes and use the ballasts out of them.

Those cheaper fixtures use rapid start ballasts. Fine if you're running a cheap shop light cuz who cares if the spectrum shifts in a shop light? But for our purposes and for the expensive bulbs we buy, stick with the programmed start ballasts mentioned above to get the most efficiency and life out of your T5 reef bulbs.