T5HO and linking a new and old tank

JxP · 09/15/2014, 11:48 AM

I inherited a T5HO 4 bulb setup (216 watt model) and was wondering if this can damage/discolor an acrylic tank that has the center brace at about 6-8 inches? I know the MH can be a problem, but I am not sure if it is just the heat that gives acrylic a problem from those or if UV can do something also?

Second question I have a 30 gallon tank that has been running for about a year that I plan to convert to a refugium for my new tank (75 gallon) that I just setup. I don’t plan to take anything out of the 30, but they will be connected via overflow/pump. So how soon should I connect the two? Once the 75 is fully cycled separately or sooner because the 30 is established?

Last question, if the T5 isn’t an issue how much better are the ATI bulbs vs the ones I can get from Petco (Zoo Med or whatever they sell)?

Thanks for the input!

JxP · 09/15/2014, 07:59 PM

So I should assume the T5HO have no issues? lol. I guess I will order bulbs and see what happens.

09/15/2014, 11:48 AM	#1
JxP Registered Member Join Date: Aug 2014 Location: Hawaii Posts: 91	T5HO and linking a new and old tank I inherited a T5HO 4 bulb setup (216 watt model) and was wondering if this can damage/discolor an acrylic tank that has the center brace at about 6-8 inches? I know the MH can be a problem, but I am not sure if it is just the heat that gives acrylic a problem from those or if UV can do something also? Second question I have a 30 gallon tank that has been running for about a year that I plan to convert to a refugium for my new tank (75 gallon) that I just setup. I don’t plan to take anything out of the 30, but they will be connected via overflow/pump. So how soon should I connect the two? Once the 75 is fully cycled separately or sooner because the 30 is established? Last question, if the T5 isn’t an issue how much better are the ATI bulbs vs the ones I can get from Petco (Zoo Med or whatever they sell)? Thanks for the input!

09/15/2014, 07:59 PM	#2
JxP Registered Member Join Date: Aug 2014 Location: Hawaii Posts: 91	So I should assume the T5HO have no issues? lol. I guess I will order bulbs and see what happens.