Quick Question About Light

[kim03333]

hi does anyone have any ideas on when you should change the lighting for the fish tank? i have only a few plants in my tank but obviously they still need the light to grow. i brought my tank second hand about 6 months ago and the light came with it so i haven't replaced it sinse, i dont know how long the guy was using this same tube before i had it so i was wondering really, is there a time when the light is not producing enough intesnse light anymore and needs replacing even though it isn't totally dead? i'm sure my light isn't as bright as it should be.
thanks for your help.

 

[OldMan47]

Advice on a T-12 is usually to change the tube every 6 months or so. Some of the narrower bulbs are said to keep their light output better so they will be a good light source longer. Power compacts should be good until they stop working completely.
I guess the answer is that it depends on what lamps you have.

 

[kim03333]

unfortunately i don't have a clue about lights or power compacts. i have just one bulb/fluoresent tube for a 3 foot tank. it's pretty narrow but as i said, i've no idea how old it is so i think, as you say the advice can be 6 months, i will replace it. i think they cost about 12 - 15 pounds so not too expensive!
many thanks, kim.