Reflectors

[Biff0r]

Looking at getting a few reflectors, but noticed only find them in 2ft/3ft sizes with around 18-20w rating!

I have a couple if 4ft tanks and looking at boosting my lighting levels, would using 2 x 2ft reflectors rated at 18w be suitable for my 38w 4ft tube or would it cause burning etc?

Obviously would prefer 1 x 4ft reflector for each bulb.

The lights that are 20w I assume it would be ok to use 2 x 2ft reflectors as it is in the safety margin.


Look forward to your replies!

Biff0r

 

[Squid]

I can't imagine it being a problem. I always thought that 1ft of a 3ft bulb and 1ft of a 4ft bulb gives out the same amount of power with T5's and T8's. (I may be wrong), hence why a longer bulb has a higher output and all T8 bulbs of the same length are about the same output. So the output direclty onto the reflector would be the same and not cause burning.

this link here shows longer reflectors too. I think the only difference is the length. The thickness and the quality of the material i doubt changes.

As with anything on this forum, this is just my opinion, and the risk is your own. But in my opinion, there is not risk

Cheers
Squid

 

[chr15_8]

im sure they would be as the ones i have are a metal and im sure its the same thickness just differnt lengths also i think the rating your talking about is the size tube they are made for

what make is it btw?

 

[Biff0r]

make of reflectors, no idea seen them in Petsathome and Shirley Aquatics!

 

[chr15_8]

if i remember correctly they are arcadia (well they are in mine) i should imagine they will be fine but thats my opinion

 

[SuperColey1]

It is not a rating of the power they can reflect, it is just a case of this is a 23" reflector and therefore is for use with 18W/24" tubes.

They are all the same material (differing between makes and models maybe) and therefore you can cut and link as long as you are not overhanging the tube

Make sure the reflector is only reflecting approx ½ inch away from the end caps or you might melt them.

I am using my old Arcadia 18W reflector (23") with my Interpet 55W PC and I cut 1½" off the end where the end cap is so that I didn't melt it

Andy

 

[Biff0r]

Thanks will be trying this morning!

 

[George Farmer]

Arcadia and Juwel reflectors are made from polished aluminium so won't melt.

 

[Biff0r]

thanks all!

Made the tank much brighter and also added a 2nd Light as well!