T8 Light Help...

[Harlequins]

One of my T8 light tubes is flickering,so i was going to remove it until i get a new one...

Is it safe to run with one tube,i'm thinking of open ends on the connections where the tube fits into it getting condensation on contacts??

 

[StandbySetting]

It depends on how the ballast is wired, but probably not, flickering sounds like a faulty starter.

Are the tubes on independent switches?

 

[StandbySetting]

It depends on how the ballast is wired, but probably not, flickering sounds like a faulty starter.

Are the tubes on independent switches?

 

[spectrum]

I found that when I took one light out of my T8 unit both stopped working anyway, you may find this is the case, you could cover the contacts in a load of electrical/duck tape, as a temporary fix until you source a new bulb

 

[Harlequins]

The tubes are on just one main inline switch on the wire.

I just bought a cheapy flourecent light from B&Q for a stop gap until tomorrow has lfs wants £28 for a tube and i didnt want to take a chance of leaving it bare.It appears to be working,so starter seems ok,although tank got a yellow tinge from the light

The tube that was in there was a gro-lux 30w which has always been on the tank since i've had it,i have a CEF local to me and they sell these tubes,so will ring them in the morning to see what price they are,hopefully cheaper than lfs.

Thanks

 

[StandbySetting]

B+Q tubes are fine to use all the time, there's no need to shell out for aquarium specific tubes.

 

[Harlequins]

B+Q tubes are fine to use all the time, there's no need to shell out for aquarium specific tubes.

Will the plants be ok with this tube?

 

[StandbySetting]

Yes.

 

[Harlequins]

Thanks

 

[coldcazzie]

Next time I replace my tubes I shall be doing that!

 

[Harlequins]

When i think what i paid for my last tube from lfs so £3.98 from B&Q is a bargain