Help with T5 bulb selection

[chris88]

2 years yikes. 9-12 months max is all they are really good for. The spectrum shifts over time and the par drops big time. there are much better options out there. you have 4 of the lowest par bulbs going there all peaking in the same spectrum. use the combo i suggested and you will get much higher par, better color, and it will fill in the blanks that your hallides leave out.

[Carrera75]

..............Never mind..........

[cooper]

Originally Posted by chris88

2 years yikes. 9-12 months max is all they are really good for. The spectrum shifts over time and the par drops big time. there are much better options out there. you have 4 of the lowest par bulbs going there all peaking in the same spectrum. use the combo i suggested and you will get much higher par, better color, and it will fill in the blanks that your hallides leave out.

Well, all the T5 and HQI bulbs are over 2 years old. Everything is doing well and healthy. There is no algae on the rocks. I am thinking about getting new bulbs to see if I notice any difference in growth or overall health of my reef.