VHO to T5

[Shu]

I currently have 2 110 vho atinics on an icecap ballast for supplement lighting. Im debating on converting this T5. How hard would this be to convert and would it be beneficial to do so. Standard 90g frame 4ft.

[Squiers007]

The only benefit that I can see would be decreased energy consumption. The 4ft. T5HO bulbs are 54W, so you would be getting about the same amount of PAR for abotu 40% less electricity, plus you have more bulb options with T5 as far as K ratings go. Hope this helps, I'm not too sure how hard changing the wiring around would be, but I'm sure you can find a wiring diagram on the Icecap website.

[Mr Cob]

VHO is great for actinic....but I would not use them as a main source of light. I would prefer T5 over VHO.

Google your Icecap ballast model coupled with "wire diagram" and you should easily find a diagram. Wiring is easy.

[Shu]

Im using them simply actinic. I have MH 250 for my light. I was just wandering some options. Not sure I am even using good bulbs for them since they came with the tank. Anyone recommend some nice vho actinic bulbs that are not going to break the bank 110w 4ft

[Mr Cob]

Yeah, if they are just for actinic....then no worries about switching to T5. Serves no real purpose unless you need some more options for blue and combinations.

[corruption]

Agreed with Rob -- but there should be very little involved inreworking the configuration for T5 -- just a change out of end caps, I would suspect. The circuit layout is identical for VHO or T5, so the only issue would be fitting the bulbs.

Jarren, try aquacave for good bulb selection -- they have it all :)

-Justin

[BIGBIRD123]

I used to use VHO but changed to T5 a few years back. There are several benefits to using T5, more lights per space, less electricity, individual reflectors, etc. My tank was doing good with just a 250w 12 Reeflux bulb but when I added the 2-420nm and 2-460nm T5 bulbs, I noticed an immediate coral growth. VHOs are for supplimentation but you can light the whole tank with T5s.

[Shu]

humm.. anyone recommend a good T5 set? Only need 2 I suppose. I want to way my options.

[corruption]

What do you mean, T5 set? End caps? Bulbs? The end caps are all standard -- its just a mogul to fit the bulb end... and bulbs is 100% subjective. Theres a HUGE selection of T5 bulbs available, with the large majority of them being actinic/supplemental. Reading is in order, cuz its the only way you'll get a grasp of what you're looking for.

http://sites.google.com/site/tfivetesting/

-Justin

[BIGBIRD123]

perfect reference reading...Grim is the Master...