T8 Vs. T12

[netcode]

I am currently in the process of making a new hood for my aquarium. I am wiring the lights myself and was looking at prices and what not. I am wondering what is the big difference between T8's and T12 fluro bulbs. I understand that T8's have more lumens per bulb but as for spectrum and wattage they are the same, and really the difference in lumens doesn't seem worth it for the difference in price. A t8 fixture with two bulbs is 39.99 while a t12 with two bulbs and a reflector is 16.99.

Anyways if someone could enlighten me that would be great. thanks

 

[Themuleous]

T12 is old school now and I think lots of places are stopping stocking them. I would get T8, as you say the light penetration is better with T8's anyway and you'll probably find replacing the bulbs becomes more difficult as time goes on.

Sam

 

[netcode]

I can't find t8's. thats why i brought it up in the first place. everything here is all t12... its strange... and t12 is so much cheaper.. so if there isn't that large of a difference then i am going to go the cheap route.

 

[Themuleous]

Where do you live again?

I not 100% sure but I think T8's compared to T12's are more powerful and so the light produced penetrates better, much like T5's are more powerful than T8's.

These T12 bulbs you've found they are for aquariums right? Not ceiling strip lights?

Sam

 

[netcode]

i live in canada.

the bulbs are for aquarium/tank, at least thats what they say on it. but they are made by phillips or whatever.


and as for t5's.. they didn't have any at home depot. only went to t8's and they were much more expensive.

 

[zedonepilot]

i live in canada.

the bulbs are for aquarium/tank, at least thats what they say on it. but they are made by phillips or whatever.


and as for t5's.. they didn't have any at home depot. only went to t8's and they were much more expensive.

i have 2 t5 s for my 48x24x24 they punch the light right down
i got aquamedic bulbs for about a £5 each online

 

[netcode]

where did u buy your bulbs? can u post up a link? or pm a link

thanks