Contemplating a switch to T5's

impreza · #1 09-26-2009, 12:28 AM

Hi,

I currently have a 250W MH pendant over my 28G nano cube and find that it runs a bit too hot for my liking.

I'm looking at the 24" Sunlight Supply Teklight 4-bulb unit. Anyone have experiences with this fixture? I am new to T5's and don't really know which fixture is considered to be the "best" - at a reasonable price.

Also, who carries these fixtures at the best price? (Either online or local in Calgary).

Thanks!

lorenz0 · #2 09-26-2009, 01:18 AM

T5's are great but i would not switch up a 250mh for a 4 bulb T5 set up. Try looking into a 6 bulb fixture due to the output. As for picking them up, red coral brings them in.

impreza · #3 09-26-2009, 01:27 AM

^Thanks. I can't find any 6 bulb 24" fixtures though.....

intarsiabox · #4 09-26-2009, 02:06 AM

ATI T5 HO fixtures have 6 bulb models. Reef Geek carries them. They are more expensive than Teks though. The Sunpower models are cheaper than the Powermodules, seem the same except for less fans.

Canadian · #5 09-26-2009, 02:48 AM

Here you go. One of the board's sponsors sells ATI Sunpower fixtures:

http://progressivereef.com/t5-lighting.php

I've had a 6x24W Sunpower for about 9 months now and am very happy with it. Dollar for dollar I'd say a 6x24W Sunpower would be your best bet for switching to T5's. Unfortunately I bought mine from ReefGeek when the dollar sucked and paid way more than Progressive Reef is selling them for.

lorenz0 · #6 09-26-2009, 04:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Canadian

Here you go. One of the board's sponsors sells ATI Sunpower fixtures:

http://progressivereef.com/t5-lighting.php

I've had a 6x24W Sunpower for about 9 months now and am very happy with it. Dollar for dollar I'd say a 6x24W Sunpower would be your best bet for switching to T5's. Unfortunately I bought mine from ReefGeek when the dollar sucked and paid way more than Progressive Reef is selling them for.

lol the other T5 troll comes out. very true what canadian has said. you will not regret a sunpower, best bang for your buck and out performs tek's due to better ballast and better reflectors.

but remember it all comes down to bulb choices when it comes to color in t5's. i lost alot of color with mostly 14k bulbs but gained double the growth.

impreza · #7 09-26-2009, 02:52 AM

^Thanks. Had no idea those even existed, and wow, they look good!

Are there any Canadian stores that sell these? I don't mind the price difference, I just want to do it right the first time!

Stones · #8 09-26-2009, 02:59 AM

Progressive Reef is Canadian so you'd be much better off giving them the business and avoiding the extra shipping/duty had you ordered from Reef Geek.

You will be very happy making the switch from MH to T5's. Not only will your tank run cooler but you'll be able to customize the colour of the outputted light spectrum to suit your personal taste and coral selection.

intarsiabox · #9 09-26-2009, 03:01 AM

Ottawa Inverts sells them as well but may need to call them for actual stock. Progressive Reef is also canadian and has free shipping on items over $200.00.