Wanting To Change From Juwel Lights

[Luke_e]

I'm wanting to replace my juwel light bulbs (in my rio 125) as i've read they are useless and crap for plantgrowth, but my question is, can i just pop some new bulbs into the fixtures or do the lighting fixtures (well the sockets the bulbs fit into at either end) need to be removed and then new ones fited?
Hopefully someone with lighting/juwel lighting may be able to help.
Thanks.

 

[Bloo]

No need for anything drastic Just remove the old tubes and replace with new ones. Remember to remove, you will have to twist the tube approx a quarter turn and then pull out.

 

[Luke_e]

Thanks Bloozoo .

 

[sub.42]

Well,

If you want to increase the output dramatically, you will find that the Juwel light unit is not strippable in order to fit T5 lights or anything like that. It is a sealed unit, and as such, will not accept any new light fittings. It also uses a conventional ballast, and won't run HO T5 lighting. It will accept new T8 tubes ( the same size as are fitted as standard), of any light spectrum you please, within the confines of your fitment length. Many of us Juwel owners just fit extra T8 tubes, and cabletie them to the original tubes, and fit a set of reflectors. This will give you more WPG, and not cost a small fortune. I think you may find that an Arcadia Ibar is available for your tank. It has HO T5 as standard, and is around £95.

sub.

 

[Luke_e]

Thanks sub.
I dont really want to spend £95.00 on lights, i was just hoping to buy some lights that would be better than my current juwel ones and maybe up my WPG to around 1.75 - 2.0. Are T8's any good? As i am no lighting expert and i wouldnt know which to choose. I dont want to add additional lights to my current juwel ones as i think they are on their last legs so to speak and it would be easier just to replace them.
So if T8's fit, then i think i'll go for the appropriate lengthed ones and add them to my tank. Does the spectrum of light play an important role?

 

[Bloo]

You can replace your current tubes with an Arcadia Freshwater and an Arcadia Origianal Tropical. These are easily available on the majority of shops. Then just stick some reflectors on them and you'll have greatly improved lighting.