When to change T5 bulbs?

[uriah]

Just wanted to get a consensus on how often everyone changes their bulbs and some tell tale signs of when to change. Thanks everyone! (Not overdriving on IceCap)

[ReefCube]

9 months

[Mr Cob]

I run mine for 12 months at 8-12 hours per day. 10k bulbs 8 hours and actinic bulbs 12 hours.

I think they can go for 18 months though. You can use a light meter to know when the bulbs start diminishing. Also, it's a good idea to have the bulbs replaced at different times to prevent shock to the corals.

[uriah]

What is the optimal lighting cycle for sps growth? I have heard some say 8 hours is good, also helps keep unwanted algea growth down. suggestions?

[jc]

1 yr.

[uriah]

Thanks guys.

[uriah]

I was looking at my lights yesterday and I could tell that two bulbs were not as bright, the other 6 still looked pretty bright.