lucid Posted October 18, 2010 Share Posted October 18, 2010 I know ive posted this before and sorry for so many posts, just dont want to make a $400 mistake. Anyways, my question is in this fixture: http://cgi.ebay.com/48-Metal-Halide-T5-Light-Aquarium-Reef-Marine-716W-New-/290484317805?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item43a236ee6d Will it be a problem with the T5's burning out quicker since they are in pairs, ive heard someone say that. Also, What is everyone's overall opinion on the fixture? I could pretty much grow anything i want with this fixture in my 55g tank? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ReeFit Posted October 18, 2010 Share Posted October 18, 2010 expect to replace your t5's anywhere from 6mo. to 1yr depending on your color preference. your halides will need to be replaced about once every 7-12mo depending on how long your run them. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rick Posted October 18, 2010 Share Posted October 18, 2010 I'll let you know in about 6 months. That looks like the Odyssea fixture there so the MH ballasts will be a little on the weak side but they should still be adequate for a 55g tank. If you get it just plan on replacing the ballasts in a year or two. I have the 2' version but mine has CF bulbs in it right now and I'm running a different MH HQI ballast that works better. In a couple of days I'll be converting it to T5's though. (Just waiting for the endcaps to arrive) The only reason pairing the bulbs up will be an issue is if they are not being cooled well enough. I suspect a lot of people having problems are also having fan issues since the fans get corroded pretty fast and need to be taken out and cleaned (or replaced) from time to time. As long as the fans are working properly these fixtures actually stay fairly cool. Keep em cool and the bulbs will last longer. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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