Condensation Tray?

[PipsterC]

Hello!

I have an Interpet Aqua pod system and I've noticed that over time even with copious amounts of cleaning, the plastic condensation tray has dramatically reduced the light through to my tank.

The lighting system is fully integrated and is shielded in a clear plastic box and no electrics are exposed.

My question is this:

Is a condensation tray absolutely necessary?

Because without it, there is a noticeable difference to the quality of light being let through to my fish.

Many thanks!

 

[RedeyesUK]

I've never bothered, not had any problems yet.

If you have a hood and your lighting is a proper sealed aquarium one and is rated for IP67 (ie waterproof) then I don't really see the point TBH. The only problem I've had is with an open tank I have with an arcadia pod, this does tend to lose quite a bit of water to condensation. No real bother though, I just top it up a couple of times a week!

 

[PipsterC]

Thanks for your response. Ill give it a go if it doesn't work out I'll switch to a piece of glass. The plastic one even though it's not that old is manky even after cleaning. The algae that accumulated on it has left marks that won't come off subsequently interfering with the light quality.

 

[petertr]

I don't use one. Water hits the lid and drips back in. Can't see the problem with that.

 

[keenonfish]

I have a Vision 180 and the tubes / reflectors are exposed to water vapour so I have made my own condense tray out of the clear plastic packaging from kids toys. Seems to be working a treat and when it gets messed up no doubt it will be that time of year again for the trip to the toy shop!
I had to clean the reflectors with vinigar when I first got the tank so I think it is worth covering the lighting with some protection...