Light Bulb Life

[Log Man55]

I have a tank with live plants - how long would you expect to run standard aqua glo or sun glo bulbs?

the plastic reflector in the standard kit has split. At some point I guess I'll replace it. Any suggestions on suitable materials amnd sources - I assume its something even a kack handed DIY person should be able to do. My local supply sore had nothing suitbale but i've not checked out the local hardware store yet.

 

[Arachnidzone]

In terms of UV bulbs for reptiles, strictly speaking any bulb which is required to output UVA and/or UVB start to diteriorate after 6 months. For optimum results replace every months, most people leave them a few years and by this time the bulb output may have bee degaded by anything from 40-60% (ish) if you can afford it to, i reccomend every 6 months, if your a little skinter 12 months is fine, depends on cash and how fussy you are for perfection. A reef tank for eqample, its worth replacing 6 monthly...

Anyway, thats my opinion, im sure others will give theirs too!

 

[Rooster]

There are SO many variables, its a tough one to answer.... I wait until the tank "tells" me a change is needed ! .... more algae, and less plant growth.

 

[Arachnidzone]

There are SO many variables, its a tough one to answer.... I wait until the tank "tells" me a change is needed ! .... more algae, and less plant growth.

Rooster, i agree, best bet is always to be 1 bulb ahead, one the algae starts etc, change to the spare and buy another in!

 

[Rooster]

There are SO many variables, its a tough one to answer.... I wait until the tank "tells" me a change is needed ! .... more algae, and less plant growth.

Rooster, i agree, best bet is always to be 1 bulb ahead, one the algae starts etc, change to the spare and buy another in!

The one and only time I kept a "spare" I couldnt find it again... then it turned up broken !!! So now I just panic buy new ones ! LOL