Electronic Or Magnetic Ballasts For Extra Light

[fishstick]

I can just about fit another T8 alongside the rear light in my Juwel 180. I read the pinned article on lighting by George Farmer and feel that the Arcadia C4 lighting control unit I bought might be magnetic ( very heavy ) rather than the electronic unit that I would want, ( much less heat wasted). Is it possible to get an electronic ballast for T8 tubes or do I have to go to T5 lighting to get the lighter, more efficient ballast?

 

[George Farmer]

The Hagen Glomat control units are electronic and good value.

http/www.aquatics-online.co.uk/catalogue...ntrol-units.asp

 

[RadaR]

The Glomat Double Starter Unit picture looks like that the 2 tubes are "stuck" together. Theyre not right?
George you've used this in your Rio 125?

 

[George Farmer]

They're not stuck together.

I used 2 x 20w in my Juwel Rio 125 to supplement the Juwel light-bar. Worked a treat.

 

[fishstick]

Thankyou for quick reply, ( that is whats so GOOD about this forum). Sorry to be dumb about this but if I already have a spare 25w tube which starter unit should I get- the Hagen 20w or the 30w? or do I need to get the same wattage tube as the control unit?

 

[RadaR]

Go with the 30W. The tube will be fine.
It will still only give an output of 25W though not 30W.

 

[fishstick]

Ok, many thanks Fred and George. Happy New Year everyone.