when should I replace lights?

D

djpj001

Member
Hello people,

I haven't post in a while b/c my tank has been up and running pretty good.

Currently I am using 4 VHO's ( 2 super white & 2 actinics){ 440 watts}
How can you tell the lights need to be replaced? I've had them for about 2 plus years and they're still going.

One more thing, do I need to replace the ballasts too???

Thx
DJPJ
 
Woodstock

Woodstock

The Wand Geek was here. ;)
RS STAFF
Without a meter there is no real way to tell for sure. I have read that the blue/actinic bulbs shift faster than say a 10k or 65k. I replace my T5 bulbs every 12-16 months or so. Keep an eye on your reef and be sure you take notice in lack of coral growth or even nusiance algae growth; either could be indications that new bulbs are needed.
 
Woodstock

Woodstock

The Wand Geek was here. ;)
RS STAFF
Opps! Missed a question...

No, the ballast should be fine for years (until they quit).

Also, replace only two bulbs every 3-4 weeks when you do. The increased PAR output from the new bulbs will be quite dramatic and your corals need to slowly acclimate to them.
 
BigAl07

BigAl07

Administrator
RS STAFF
Yes 8-9 months is about right. The bulbs will "last/burn" much longer than that. What happens is that as the bulb age they "Spectrum" shifts ever so slightly and that's why the bulbs need replacing.
 
A

acer

New Member
I replace my aquasun VHO's every 9 months - but have left the Actinics on for up to 16 months thinking they would not shift as much. Lessons learned- I guess I will be buying some more VHO bulbs. Anybody have any suggestions were I can get them- 46.5 inch is what I use. My local stores sell them for over $40 each ( ouch!!) - so I will be ordering via the internet. Thanks.
 
lcstorc

lcstorc

Well-Known Member
Check out our sponsors. Many sell replacement bulbs and even with shipping they are less than buying at the LFS.
 
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