T5 Lighting Comparison
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Perhaps the most popular type of lighting for saltwater aquariums is T5. Up until recent years, aquarists always struggled with older forms of lighting. The creation of T5 bulbs made it possible to keep a wide range of corals without bulky ballasts or high bulb replacement costs. This is because the bulbs last for up to one year and the ballasts are built internally into most light fixtures.
When comparing T5 to VHO there are several advantages. The biggest difference is the amount of power each bulb uses. The VHO bulb uses 110 watts of power and the T5 bulb uses 54 watts of power to light a 48 inch lamp. Yet, the T5 bulb puts out significantly more intense light. VHO also requires a larger electronic ballast that can be difficult to mount in tight places. T5 bulbs are also significantly smaller in diameter which saves space.
When comparing T5 bulbs to VHO, you are significantly limited with VHO bulb color options. There is only one main manufacture and they produce a daylight, actinic and 50/50 bulb. Whereas there are many T5 bulb manufactures, so you can always find the bulb color you want. Several bulb options include 420nm actinic, 460nm actinic, 12,000k reef, 10,000k daylight and 6,500 growth bulbs. Most aquarists prefer a combination of the different colors of light. This enables you to create a dawn and dusk effect if you have multiple lamp switches. It is best to put your lights on a timer for consistency as the corals will acclimate to that pattern. T5 fixtures are available in all of the standard aquarium lengths. T5 works bests on aquariums less than 24 inches deep because they have trouble penetrating to 30 inches or more.
There are a few things to consider when you are ready to buy your T5 light. You already know you are going to keep corals, but how many bulbs should you get? The answer is you will want two bulbs for every six inches wide your aquarium is. With T5 lighting you should be able to keep most types of corals and clams without having to worry. T5 lighting enables almost all of them to perform proper photosynthesis. This helps corals grow and produces better coloration. You will immediately notice more vibrant colors, especially in acropora species.
Another important consideration is whether or not you will be hanging the light fixture. Some T5 lights are designed to be hung, while others are meant to rest on the trim of the aquarium. If you get one that rests on the trim, make sure you have enough access to work inside the aquarium, especially if you have a canopy. It can be frustrating to clean your aquarium if you can't access certain areas.
Article Source: Articlelogy.com
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