Why "Hang" t5 fixture?

[Seanthefish]

I was curious why everyone hangs the t5 lighting above the tank. I have a 29 gallon tank (30" wide) and use a spare 36" quad bulb t5 ho to light.

What are the reasons why people hang the lights 6-12" above the surface of the water?

I was assuming heat but it seems like a negligable amount 2" from the surface on an open top tank. (water temp stays at 77 in this tank)

Would hanging the unit be better?

Thanks for any any help in regards to this question in advance!

 

[OregonReefer]

I'm going with a stand for my Tek for a few reasons....

I like the idea that I can just push it back to access the tank.

I want to be able to put some artwork on the wall behind the tank... the Vaulted ceiling leaves a lot of space

Then there's the vaulted cealing... it's about 14' above one side of the tank and 10' on the other... I just don't think it would look right

 

[solitude127]

I have no option but to hang my ATI fixture. But I like the adjustablility of light intensity by lowering or raising the light.

 

[nadking]

Hang it because it looks cool, the ability to raise and lower the fixture for light intensity is also nice.

This device makes raising and lowering a snap
http://www.horticulturesource.com/product_info.php?products_id=6465

 

[davocean]

Sometimes it's just someone's preference in looks, sometimes it's out of necessity, such as the ATI's that don't seem to come w/ legs or mounting brackets from what I've seen.
However I just built a canopy and made my own brackets for my ATI fixture, but I'm a carpenter and I prefer the look of a wood canopy hiding my gear.
I do agree hanging does make it easier for maintenance access, and acclimating by adjusting height.