Lighting Upgrade In New Tank?

[AndyTaylor]

Ok, so I picked up my new 170L tank yesterday. I'm a bit away from set up yet as i'm waiting on my Laterite and on my batch of Riccia to grow out a bit but i think the supplied lighting will be inadequate.
I got 2 30W Phillips with the tank - 3 foot tubes - no other details on them, i think they're T5's . This gives me 60W for 170L or 50 US Gallons 'ish.....a little over 1 WPG, right?
What should I replace them with to achieve 2 WPG or more?.... Do i just put in 2 60W tubes.

Andy

 

[Bloo]

No can do. Doesn't work like that i'm afraid. You need to add extra tubes.
Have a look to see how it's done here.

 

[AndyTaylor]

Ok, so i'll need to replace the whole lot then. What about 2 55W T5's and control gear? Like these - http/www.aquatics-online.co.uk/Z497155.asp
My hood is a simpler affair than the Jewel, it's all one piece molded plastic for a start with a small flap for feeding. To work on the tank you open it and prop it up like a car hood/bonnet.
I could just rip out the existing and fit a whole new set?
Better idea?

Andy

 

[Dubby]

Ok, so i'll need to replace the whole lot then. What about 2 55W T5's and control gear? Like these - http/www.aquatics-online.co.uk/Z497155.asp
My hood is a simpler affair than the Jewel, it's all one piece molded plastic for a start with a small flap for feeding. To work on the tank you open it and prop it up like a car hood/bonnet.
I could just rip out the existing and fit a whole new set?
Better idea?

Andy

If there is no space to add another tube then the T5 is the way to go. Otherwise it would be cheaper to buy a new tube, ballast and fix it to the hood.

 

[AndyTaylor]

Thanks Dubby,
I'll measure it up later and see how much space I have. I extra 30W T8 might be a good plan actually as it would allow me to turn the lights on in stages. maybe add a small moonlight while i'm at it.

Andy