Using 2x40w Pc Bulbs In A 2x65w Fixture?

[Inkling]

Hi Guys,

I am considering going the planted route, but after reading the boards I think I'd better go low-tech to start (weekly dosing, yeast CO2 device). The problem I'm having is finding lights that will fit my 45 USG long tank that is 48" and still get me just under 2wpg. Is it unwise to get a 2x65w fixture but then use 2x40w bulbs in it? Best I can tell they are 5" a piece shorter than the 65w bulbs and I definitely don't want the middle 10" of the tank to be less brightly lit. The unit I'm considering is the 2x65w Satellite with lunar lights. It seems to be a really good buy for the money.

Any thoughts would be much appreciated.

 

[aaronnorth]

you can only run the same watt bulbs in the ballast because of different lenghts, but mainly power. Why not get 2 x 30w and place one to the left of the tank, and one to the right so they overlap in the middle? This will give you 1.5wpg.