Led Or Tube Lighting?

[flix_cw]

I've just replied to an ad on gumtree and asked the seller how old the current tube lighting is in the tank.

He says it's never been used but working, but he recommends i buy some LEDs off ebay to save on bills.

My current tank is lit with tubing, i'd be interested to know how much more energy tubing uses, and whether LEDs offer the full spectrum of lighting for decent plant growth. I've heard that LEDs can lead to algae problems.

My other issue is that of installing them. I wouldn't have the first clue, being a complete novice at all things electrical/DIY. Ie. hooking them up to a power supply/attaching them to the underside of the tank lid.

Anyone been in my shoes and able to shed some... light? Thanks!

 

[JoshuaA]

It might not be the case but imagine when he said replace your tubes with LEDs he might of meant these

Though at the price per tube they are I wouldn't really consider it at the moment, I did look into them myself as an upgrade and they looked fantastic when I saw them in person everything was great about them just not prepared to be paying £70 odd quid per tube.

Though if he meant the LED strips I don't know how to go about that or whether it would really work on a large tank.

I imagine the LED and algae issue doesn't really have any basis other than someone noticed aglae grew when they had LEDs in their tank and therefore associated it with LEDs however that's just my thought of thinking. Realistically I have no idea though I imagine it will be the same case as if you used any other light.