In Need Of Not Expensive Lighting

[shortymet55]

I bought an 29 Gallon Aquarium Kit. The fluorescent bulb says F18T8 24". I assume this means 18W, 1"D, 24"L. First of all, is this correct. Second of all, what are my options for upgrading the lighting. I have amazon swords, micro swords, and java moss (with hopefully more plants to come). I definitely need more lighting. I plan on only using lighting and fertilizer. No CO2. Im thinking 60W would be good, but how can I do this without needing a whole new light fixture. The one I have is the basic Perfecto Single Bulb Hood. Are there any high Wattage bulbs I can use or any cheap modifications to add a bulb?

Thanks

 

[Wolfenrook]

Any method to add more tubes is going to involve purchasing a new controler, you could however replace that tube with a T6. No idea what the F18 means, but T8 means it has a diameter of 1 inch, where T12s have a diameter of 1 1/2 inches and T5s have a diameter of 5/8s of an inch. T5s are the most efficient but require purpose made controlers. T12s, T8s and T6s can all be powered by the same kind of starter, T12s are the least efficient, whilst T6s are the most efficient of these types. So you can replace a T8 tube with a T6, all you need is some kind of washer to make the connection between the thinner tube and the lamp holders tight. Not sure as to availability of T6 tubes in the US however, it seems that even T5s aren't as widely available over there.

Alternative is you could just buy another T8 controler and a second tube and fit these into your hood, these are fairly cheap everywhere these days.

Ade

 

[shortymet55]

im still kind of lost. Can you give me a link to these controllers? Thanks

 

[Wolfenrook]

I could but they would be useless to you. I live in the UK where prices and products are quite different to those in the US.

Ade

 

[shortymet55]

Can anyone in the US point me in the right direction?

Thanks