Diy Lighting?

[caboose_122]

i just got a new tank and i need some help i have to make a diy hood (its a 5 sided tank), i need to know what to do on making a diy lighting fixture, the tank is 18 - 19 inches giver or take half an inch at the widest point, if anyone could post a artical on how to make a lighting fixture on a tank that would be helpful

thanks
alex

 

[caboose_122]

no one can help me? i need to know what would be best. i need some info on how to do thisi need about 25W of light.

 

[BigC]

When constructing the hood I would incorporate a spar inside which would have two uses, one would be to strengthen the structure as a whole and the other would be to hold your lighting clips for the tube/s.
Regards
BigC

 

[caboose_122]

ok thanks

 

[Rooster]

I think I would use CFL (compact flourescent tubes) also known as "enegy saving" lamps.... these are available in "daylight" so would be ideal. (and fit standard household lamp fittings !)

 

[caboose_122]

I think I would use CFL (compact flourescent tubes) also known as "enegy saving" lamps.... these are available in "daylight" so would be ideal. (and fit standard household lamp fittings !)

thats what i was thinking, daylight is 6500k right

 

[Rooster]

Thats right... there are a lot of on line dealers who stock them, you may find a local shop will - but if its not printed on the box as daylight, full spectrum or 6500 etc - then leave it !
Also, if you are planning to run the tank without cover sheets - buy weather proof fittings for the lamps...

 

[caboose_122]

ok thanks for the info

 

[NoRp]

do these count?
http/www.bltdirect.com/product.php?pid=7369&cat=

im noob when it comes to lighting plus im a cheap git aswell.
could you point out from that site what i would need to get 60 to 100 watts including the actual units

 

[Rooster]

That links a 3 foot tube, so you'd have to fold it up ! LOL

I was thinking of these : [URL="http/www.bltdirect.com/product.php?pid=5970&cat="]http/www.bltdirect.com/product.php?pid=5970&cat=[/URL]

From the same company... although, again I would phone around locally, see if you can save the postage

 

[NoRp]

can you really use them things for aquariums? i could just put a lamp fitting in there and stick in 3-4 of these to get 60-100 watts i want?

 

[Rooster]

Sure... why not ? I doubt you need that much light though... I was growing plants in a standard rectangular tank with just the one 18W !
Use a reflector to use all the light, either a commercial one (about a fiver, but will be enough for 3/4 lamps if you cut it up - scissors) or cover the inside of the hood with cooking foil.

Only proviso I would make is to either use cover sheets... or make SURE that the lamp/socket join is water tight, as condensation WILL get in there and would be dangerous... ask at a local electrical shop for sockets suitable for outside use and these will have seals at the lamp AND cable inlet.

Or do as I did... use a pendant fitting above an open, or glass covered tank.

 

[NoRp]

has anyone else used these kinds of lights for there tanks? coz this could be a great way for me to save some cash!!

what about these ones

http/cgi.ebay.co.uk/FULL-SPECTRUM-R80-RE...1QQcmdZViewItem

Specifications

* Description: Energy Saving Lamps
* Approved: CE marked
* Voltage: 240v
* Watt: 13w
* Lumens output (lm): 624
* Lifetime: 10000hours
* Color Temperature: 6400k
* Please note: Not suitable for dimming
*
Size: Full Length 124mm


Please Note: This bulb is not ordinary energy saver that gives out off white light.the color temperature is 6400k that means it gives out daylight white light it is very bright.This bulb is also used for indoor digital photography you can achieve great colors. It has been tested and proven to get good results.i would strongly recommend to try one you will not be disappointed otherwise I will refund you the full ammount.

 

[Rooster]

That would be excellent for use as a pendant !

 

[NoRp]

no no really lol im confused, if these can be used for tropical plants why dont more people use them.
http/cgi.ebay.co.uk/SAD-Daylight-30W-Lam...1QQcmdZViewItem
that one is the 6500k you spoke about but it also says that 30 wats is actualy 150 watt output?