gary

I am considering converting my hoods from a single T8 tube (36inch/30) to a
T5 tube (freshwater setup)

As I understand it, the T5 tube will have a higher light output than the T8
(with the T5 being slightly shorter at 34in with 39w output)

Has anyone else made this conversion? Is there anything to look out for when
changing the ballast?

Is it possible to mount two T5 tubes close together (i.e 1.25in) , in the
space a single T8 tube was? (i.e 1 inch) - I didnt have space to mount two
T8s but could just about squeeze in two T5 close together?

Any idea how much more light a single T5 gives over a single T8?

barrie smart

More important is the color temperature of both tubes - no use putting a
conventional fluoro tube in, it will not do anything to promote plant
growth, nor will the color be all that pleasing.

Any mfrs website will give you relative lumen output for all lengths and
diameter tubes. Remember they'll give lamp output only - actual light on
the tank will vary according to the fitting used. No problem with
mounting 2 T5 tubes together - if too close you'll probably get cycling
in one or both, not good appearance. Ballast requirement is on wattage,
can fit 2 ballasts into the fitting? Might give off a bit of heat as well.

Regards

Barrie

gary

I am considering converting my hoods from a single T8 tube (36inch/30) to a
T5 tube (freshwater setup)

As I understand it, the T5 tube will have a higher light output than the T8
(with the T5 being slightly shorter at 34in with 39w output)

Has anyone else made this conversion? Is there anything to look out for when
changing the ballast?

Is it possible to mount two T5 tubes close together (i.e 1.25in) , in the
space a single T8 tube was? (i.e 1 inch) - I didnt have space to mount two
T8s but could just about squeeze in two T5 close together?

Any idea how much more light a single T5 gives over a single T8?

barrie smart

More important is the color temperature of both tubes - no use putting a
conventional fluoro tube in, it will not do anything to promote plant
growth, nor will the color be all that pleasing.

Any mfrs website will give you relative lumen output for all lengths and
diameter tubes. Remember they'll give lamp output only - actual light on
the tank will vary according to the fitting used. No problem with
mounting 2 T5 tubes together - if too close you'll probably get cycling
in one or both, not good appearance. Ballast requirement is on wattage,
can fit 2 ballasts into the fitting? Might give off a bit of heat as well.

Regards

Barrie