T5, Mercury Vapour Or Both?

[steve711]

Does anyone have any experience and opinions on lighting for a 24" deep planted tank?

I used to use 125w mercury vapour but now T5's seem to be the 'in' thing, as I've never used them and am going to be setting up a 60"x24"x30" tank in a couple of months just wanted some opinions/experinces.

 

[oldwhitewood]

I would steer clear of mercury vapour, they give a kinda sickly yellow tinge to the water, T5s are much better in terms of efficiency, heat and IMO appearance. If you get something around the 6000-6500k range they'll look great.

 

[steve711]

I always used Mercury vapour and was more than happy with the results. A few things against them were, heat, cost of bulbs (to a degree) and electricity usage.

I never really found a 'yellow sickly tinge'. I quite liked them to be honest.

Just though T5's might be cheaper, easier and more compact.

 

[oldwhitewood]

They are, you have effectively answered your question there.

Personally I dont like the appearance of mercury vapour lamps but I know a lot of people must still like them, I'm by no means right it's just my own preference. I would always opt for T5s for the reasons you mentioned.