Upgrading to T5's

[chrisfraser05]

I just bought a used Aqua one which has 2 30w t8's its a 22inch high 300lt tank.

Now I think I could just leave the T8's in place and add 2 39w T5's using a controller, would this be enough?

this would bring my total to 138w

I want to grow some forground stuff like HC and have already sourced all the bits for my FE CO2 so the cost isn't an issue so much.

One thing I need to take into account is that it is a bow front so I am pretty much restricted to using the hood that comes with it and fitting lights inside there.

 

[sanj]

22" is not that high, you can grow plants with those tubes, adding the extra light may increase the range of plants further, but it will also mean that you definately will have to dose with carbon (co2/liquid) and ferts.

In short yes it is ample light at 138w I believe.

 

[chrisfraser05]

Cool. I have a regulator here from aqua essentials and will be getting an FE delivered before setting up.

I think then I will start with the twin 30's, switch to twin 39's then eventually run all 4 for a period at the middle of the day.

 

[Dolly Sprint 16v]

Cool. I have a regulator here from aqua essentials and will be getting an FE delivered before setting up.

I think then I will start with the twin 30's, switch to twin 39's then eventually run all 4 for a period at the middle of the day.

Hi Chris

Great idea but - having that quantity of lighting will probably cause algae issue - I hope you have great water circulation, lots of fertz and plenty of Co2 to combat the algae. Trust me - stick with your T8 your plants will grow but not as quick as they would with T5 - have a read of this thread before you take the plunge.

viewtopic.php?f=50&t=12770

Regards
paul.

 

[chrisfraser05]

Thank you for the advice guys

I'm going to just replace the bulbs to begin with and see how I get on with just the T8's

I may eventually replace these with T5's but will stay wary of over lighting it