Lighting

[scotty]

thinking of buying a tank from nd aquatics this is the lighting they have quoted me for a 48 inch tank:Lights (Arcadia T8) 1 x double starter, 2 x reflectors, 2 x tubes - £84,can i get it cheaper elsewhere and would i be better with t5 lighting.

cheers

scott

 

[KittyKat]

You could easily get all of that for less, including a more efficient electrical starter.

There is no difference for the average person between T5 and T8, but if you plan to grow plants in a high-tech set-up ..?

 

[scotty]

is there any links you can give me for the lighting

thanks


scott

 

[KittyKat]

Erm, Google? Ebay? I know that Arcadia do an electric ballast, so have a look at theirs.

As for bulbs, I have long since given up on aquarium bulbs and use Philips/Osram's colour 865, such as http/www.lightbulbs-direct.com/product/1937/f36w-865-t8-4ft-triphosphor-daylight/ The results are excellent.

 

[scotty]

i have looked on e-bay,but with postage it ends up around the same price,the tank i am buyiny including the lights out at £507 delivered

 

[KittyKat]

The first result on Google gave me starter unit for £49.99 and the bulbs above are £17.40 (maybe even get a couple of spare ones for when they next need replacement), all including delivery. £67.39 in total.

If the starter which is offered with the tank is not an electronic one, I would definitely go for the above option because electronic started are considerably more reliable and more efficient. If it is an electronic one, then it's up to you if you want to save £15 or not!