Light Unit Help

weezawoo · Feb 7, 2011

I am looking or a new light unit for my tank as the one it came with only holds 30w bulbs. No way enough for my 300l tank. I am looking for reasonably priced ones and found this:

http

/cgi.ebay.co.uk/Exo-Terra-Light-Unit-T8-10-Fluorescent-2-x-40W-Watt-/260716934374?pt=UK_Pet_Supplies_Reptiles_Spiders_Insects&hash=item3cb3f0b4e6

It says it is water proof but it says it is for reptiles. Would I have a problem putting aquarium bulbs into it as I know they are pretty much the same

Thanks

KittyKat · Feb 7, 2011

A fluorescent bulb in a fluorescent bulb is a fluorescent bulb. An aquarium one is just a re-branded household lamp, which is just another name for a reptile lamp. As long as you get the right mA rating, wattage and diameter, you will be able to use any bulb with any ballast. For example a normal bulb in a normal ballast, a high output bulb in a high output ballast.
More information here: http

/en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fluorescent_lamp#Electrical_aspects_of_operation

If you read the description there or the official Exo-Terra description, you will see that it says water resistant, not waterproof. Where did you read that it was? Even the manual says "2. WARNING: This appliance is NOT waterproof and MUST be protected from coming in contact with water."
Manual: http

/www.exo-terra.com/download/product_manuals/Light_Unit.pdf
Manufacturer's description: http

/www.exo-terra.com/en/products/light_unit.php

On the other hand, I doubt any light fitting is truly waterproof. You will need to judge for yourself if you think the light will be away from the water enough to not get wet and if your tank has enough ventilation for water to not condense on the fittings. For example, most of my light units have bog standard fittings which are not water resistant, but at the same time have good ventilation and plastic covers over the lights so water can't get to them.

weezawoo · Feb 7, 2011

I sent an email to the seller about the water resistant asking about if used for aquariums etc they advised it would be ok. hmmm.....
thanks for the other info