Advice On New Lighting Rig For Fluval Duo Deep 800

[lizc]

Hi,
I've got a Fluval Duo Deep 800 which is well planted with Vallisneria & a type of crypt, run on a fairly low-maintenance basis. I have 4 large Rainbows, 4 Harlequin rasbora, about 6 kuhlis & 2 shrimp, all of which are at least 3.5yrs old (last time I bought any fish, before my daughter was born!)
The tank has been running for 6.5 years with the inbuilt hood lights using 2 x 24" fluorescent tubes which have been in use for a couple of years with no problems. (Possibly 40w from what I can remember?)

The reason I'm asking for help is that the brackets that hold the tubes have become brittle and cracked and will break if I try to change the bulbs (which now needs doing). I am thinking i'll have to take out the original brackets etc & install a whole new lighting set up in the hood. I have done some research but am thoroughly confused as to what would be the best option, does anyone have any suggestions?
My husband is an engineer type who is fairly handy with household electrics, and I'd rather not spend too much!

Thanks in advance

 

[KittyKat]

I assembled a DIY set of T5 (normal output) tubes with electronic starters, which I consider to be one of the cheapest and more efficient options. I used Arcadia cables as I wasn't able to find water resistant tube sockets cheaply, but your husband may have better luck.
 
The other popular alternative, which may be cheaper in the long run, but has higher setup costs is making a DIY LED setup using high quality LEDs. This is usually the preferred option for marine lighting because that in itself tends to be more expensive, but no reason not to go for this.

 

[lizc]

Thanks very much for your reply KittyKat, I'll look into those options....