Lights question

[zxyqu]

Tank works much better at this size with a 4x4 unit. I'd go with the cheaper Hydrofarm model (it's the one I have), as the designer one is just a more "polished" finish. Unless of course you need the light to look a bit nicer. You still might be a bit light shy on the far ends of the tank, but it shouldn't be too noticeable. Tank looks great

[isurus79]

I would agree with the 4x4 T5 system. If it turns out to be too bright, then you can pull out a bulb.

Conversely, if you go 2x4 and its not bright enough, then you are SOL.

As for the LEDs, they are making great lights now that are a good white color (Ray carries the bulbs). The "UFOs" are this hideous blue and red color that seriously look like UFOs!!

Originally Posted by zxyqu

Tank works much better at this size with a 4x4 unit. I'd go with the cheaper Hydrofarm model (it's the one I have), as the designer one is just a more "polished" finish. Unless of course you need the light to look a bit nicer. You still might be a bit light shy on the far ends of the tank, but it shouldn't be too noticeable. Tank looks great

Thank you.
I liked designer because of brown finish which would go better with the rest of the room, but was worried that it is missing some important features that enviro has. Good to know they have same features.

Which bulbs do you use for phals - warm or cool, or mixture of both?

Originally Posted by isurus79

I would agree with the 4x4 T5 system. If it turns out to be too bright, then you can pull out a bulb.

Conversely, if you go 2x4 and its not bright enough, then you are SOL.

As for the LEDs, they are making great lights now that are a good white color (Ray carries the bulbs). The "UFOs" are this hideous blue and red color that seriously look like UFOs!!

Thank you. That's a good idea about pulling a tube. I was thinking about moving fixture farther, but taking out the bulb is much smarter.

[zxyqu]

Probably a personal choice on that one. You could use a mix of red/blue, or just go straight 6400K. They might do better under a mix, but it's probably marginal.

[31drew31]

Originally Posted by orchideya

I am not sure how to define a good reflector, total newb in the lighting business, sorry.

Just searched for "grow lights" and hydrofarm came up.
What would you suggest as a good reflector fixture for T5 bulbs?
Thanks.

Taking a look at the manual for the 4' 4bulb fixtures and it says you must remove the plastic layer off the reflector so sounds like it has one. Preferably you want one that has individual curves for each bulb vs one big reflector.

I have one of these and would definitely buy more. Shipping to Alberta was quite reasonable and all 4 bulbs came intact (doesn't come with bulbs), but there was duty on the item when picking it up from UPS.
High Bay Fluorescent 4lmp T5ho 120 277 - 20-FHB45HO-120 277

Thank you guys.

31drew31, I already ordered yesterday this one:

T5 4Ft/4-Tube Designer System w/ Bulbs

It should come with 6400 bulbs. Each bulb has its own reflector I think.
The shipping to Ottawa via ups was kind of high in my opinion - over $60.
Since I can't hang it from the ceiling, I am planning to just lay the fixture box on the top of the lid. Would it work? I don't mind increasing temps in the tank since I will have phals in there and ambient temps in the basement are quite low - around 18 celsium.
Thanks again for all your help.

[Ray]

What kind of lid?

T5 bulbs burn hotter than other fluorescents, so if the are very close to a glass top, it may crack. plastic may melt. The better idea is to elevate the top of the enclosure to include the fixture.

[Ray]

I would like to add that you should get the fixture shipped to one of those "package services" along the border in the US, then you go pick it up. Probably cut that shipping cost by 50% or more.

I'd say that 90% of my Canadian customers do that.

Lid is glass but it has a 36 ft long cut outfilled with steel heavy duty mesh screen, so most of the heat willl go to that steel except half foot on each side - to the glass. Can that work or should I still raise the fixture?
If raise - by how many inches?
Thanks!