How Often Should I Change My T-5 Bulbs

bhdmc · 01/17/2007, 02:11 PM

I just purchase a new T-5 light fixture and was wondering how often should I change the bulbs?

Amphiprion · 01/17/2007, 04:53 PM

What fixture? If it is a tek or similar fixture that normally drives the tubes, then most people replace once every 18 months. If they are overdriven (like on an IceCap ballast), they should be replaced annually.

bhdmc · 01/18/2007, 12:05 PM

It is a 30" Corallife light fixture which I am using on my refuge.

Quote:

Originally posted by Amphiprion
What fixture? If it is a tek or similar fixture that normally drives the tubes, then most people replace once every 18 months. If they are overdriven (like on an IceCap ballast), they should be replaced annually.

kawasaki · 01/18/2007, 05:39 PM

I replace mine every 12 months.

lpkirby · 01/18/2007, 06:04 PM

I would say 12 months if it is 10 or 14k and 18 if is actnic only. My T-5's are only to supplement my MH's so I change out at 18mo.

01/17/2007, 02:11 PM	#1
bhdmc Registered Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: New York Posts: 956	How Often Should I Change My T-5 Bulbs I just purchase a new T-5 light fixture and was wondering how often should I change the bulbs?

01/17/2007, 04:53 PM	#2
Amphiprion Premium Member Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Mobile, AL Posts: 6,611	What fixture? If it is a tek or similar fixture that normally drives the tubes, then most people replace once every 18 months. If they are overdriven (like on an IceCap ballast), they should be replaced annually. __________________ You've done it now, haven't you? Current Tank Info: 40g breeder patch reef w/ seagrass; 2-250w XM 10K; Vortech MP40wES & MP10wES; BM Curve 7 skimmer; carbon & occasional GFO

01/18/2007, 05:39 PM	#4
kawasaki Registered Member Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: La Grande, OR Posts: 59	I replace mine every 12 months.

01/18/2007, 06:04 PM	#5
lpkirby Registered Member Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: Hempstead, TX Posts: 701	I would say 12 months if it is 10 or 14k and 18 if is actnic only. My T-5's are only to supplement my MH's so I change out at 18mo.