T5 Distance from water surface.

[BusterDog]

Sorry if this has been covered before. I have read a lot of the monster T5 thread - wow!

I am designing a canopy for T5's for my 125 gal reef. I want to keep the bulbs & reflectors high enough not to be splashed without seriously affecting performance. Would 8" from bulb to water surface be too high?

Thanks,
Todd

 

[luke33]

I would keep them closer myself. There not going to affect the water temp, so imo 4" max would be far enough. 8" your talkin 24-30"'s penetration to the bottom of the tank.

 

[atvdave]

I'd keep them as close to your tank as possible. The closer to the water they are the more PAR's you will have at the bottom of your tank. T-5's with vent fans don't give off much heat at all.

Do you have a splash shield covering your lights? If not I'd seriously consider one. even if you have them mounted high.

Hey. My Mom & Dad have 60 acres just north of Bristol. Last name Dossett.

Here's a pic on my T-5 light fixture, it sets right on top of my 125.

 

[Wryknow]

Mine are set about 4" over the water surface. At this height I have to wipe them off periodically, but it's not too bad.