Normal output T5 bulbs

Myka · #1 04-02-2015, 02:21 AM

I did consider LED but as you saw, it's all integrated so it's not as simple a swap. The client wants saltwater. I'm sure I can make it work. Get his feet wet and with any luck he'll want a bigger tank.

I'll probably do a journal thread once it's up and running. It will be an interesting ride.

mike31154 · #2 04-02-2015, 02:28 AM

Kudos to you! The client is always right I reckon. Looking forward to the journal thread. I'm a bit skeptical about the integrated power heads providing sufficient flow in a tank that long. More challenges than just the lighting! If there's someone that can make this work, it would be you!

Myka · #3 04-02-2015, 02:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mike31154

Kudos to you! The client is always right I reckon. Looking forward to the journal thread. I'm a bit skeptical about the integrated power heads providing sufficient flow in a tank that long. More challenges than just the lighting! If there's someone that can make this work, it would be you!

Oh you bet, I have already told the client we will need to add a stronger powerhead, maybe two. You should see the "state of the art" filtration system - those two little powerheads have giant foam blocks stuck onto the bottom of them with bioballs stuffed into little pockets in the foam block.

I don't think the client is always right. I'm always honest, and I put forth the challenges. He's very excited about this tank (it does look very cool where he has it mounted). It gets water and rock today - no light (haha).

mike31154 · #4 04-03-2015, 12:37 AM

Well if the powerheads need to be upgraded, may as well gut the lights too! NO T5 tubes are going to severely limit livestock choices, even if you are successful in sourcing tubes with a suitable colour spectrum. I assume this is going to be a FOWLR then?

Was almost going to suggest replacing the NO ballasts with some HO jobs, but that would mean more heat & has the potential to void any CSA approval of the fixture that's built in. I guess that would apply for switching to LED as well, the design would need to be carefully thought out so you don't end up being liable for burning the client's house down. Different story if you were building for yourself, although electrical safety standards still apply. Probably wouldn't want to burn your own house down either!