Why is my light flickering?

[Orion2012]

I have the standard 48" Flourescent light fixture that is brand new. I bought a T8 Zoo Med Reef Sun bulb and it done nothing but flicker. So I took a standard flourescent buld and tried it and I had no problems. So I took the bulb back and decided to try a T8 Zoo Med Coral Sun bulb and same problem. It does nothing but flickers. I know the light works but don't know if it's the Zoo Med bulbs or because it's a T8. What is the best bulb to use in a Standard 48" Aquarium light fixture?

Thanks!

 

[Allmost]

what fixture ?

is it a T5 fixture ? or T8 ?

 

[Orion2012]

Light flckering

Light flckering

I know it's sad that I'm not for sure and that is probably my problem. lol The bulb that came with the Fixture is a F40T10/48" I looked and all I could find was T8 or T5 bulbs for Reef keeping. I noticed the T8 was thinner than the T10 bulb. Sorry I'm sure I sound dumb on this...

 

[Allmost]

yap, u got a T10 fixture. which would fit only T10 bulbs.


not as much light as T5 HO ...

 

[Orion2012]

I can't seem to find any T10 bulbs made for Saltwater. I guess the fixture is the Freshwater only. It's a dinosaur. My tank is a 55 gallon with glass tops. Any recommendation on a good Reef Fixture. I know some have to fit down in the lip of the tank.

 

[Allmost]

I can't seem to find any T10 bulbs made for Saltwater. I guess the fixture is the Freshwater only. It's a dinosaur. My tank is a 55 gallon with glass tops. Any recommendation on a good Reef Fixture. I know some have to fit down in the lip of the tank.

what are you planning to keep in there ?

how many bulbs on ure fixture ?

 

[Orion2012]

I found out that a T8 will fit a T10 fixture but not without some draw backs. Some ballasts may burn out or have trouble starting a T8. That explains the flickering. The ballast just can't start it. Being new to the hobby I'm really wanting anything that will put off good light fixture for coral that will fit a 55 gallon with a glass top. As a newbie something in the $100-$200 range. Not sure on what species I will try. I know Kelvins need to be high for some lower for others. The light seems to be my only draw back.

I sure thank you for the help as well!!!