Added 30 watts to my 10g - Aquarium Advice

chinoanoah · 03-09-2009, 08:52 PM

My tank already had 28 watts over my 10g. I added 30 watts today. 5.8 wpg,

Here comes algae

Floyd R Turbo · 03-09-2009, 09:23 PM

Actually, CFLs output about 35% more than T12s, which is what the WPG rule is based on, so you actually have 58 x 1.35 or 78.3 effective watts, or almost 8 WPG. Add some CO2 or you'll get so much algae you could...I guess I don't know how to finish that cleverly.

Updating the WPG rule (theory)

New Lights?

SparKy697 · 03-09-2009, 11:26 PM

So many more variables.....

The WPG changes quite a bit on small tanks, plus the fact that you are using the spiral lamps means that there is a fair amount of loss. Not all of the light is making it's way into the tank and is lost in bouncing around. The lack of a reflector just adds to the inefficiency of the lamps. Not that a little co2 would hurt, I just would not freak out just yet.

FastFly67 · 03-10-2009, 12:01 AM

dude, make a reflector. i did a homemade light fixture for about $20 bucks (we'll see how it works though) . it would definitely help direct the light into the tank. you can get a 10'x10" roll of aluminum flashing from home depot for $10. that and a little patience and imagination and it'd be awesome

chinoanoah · 03-10-2009, 12:16 AM

I'm on it, boss. Thanks for all the info guys

fort384 · 03-10-2009, 12:18 AM

I have to mention it.............I love the cow.

chinoanoah · 03-10-2009, 01:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fort384

I have to mention it.............I love the cow.

Thanks, got that as a present for christmas from my brother-in-law. Apparently, its oversized bull-parts were too big to pass up. XD haha

SparKy697 · 03-10-2009, 07:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by chinoanoah

Thanks, got that as a present for christmas from my brother-in-law. Apparently, its oversized bull-parts were too big to pass up. XD haha

rofl

While you are at it, pick up some rubbing/polishing compound. With a buffing wheel or a lot of elbow grease you can make a semi-respectable reflective surface.

mackdaddy81 · 03-14-2009, 11:36 PM

Nice fixture!

So you ended up going with the same DIY fixture that I made.

What are you using as a cover for the bulbs?

chinoanoah · 03-15-2009, 02:05 AM

I have white styrofoam board (the kind people use to spray-mount art projects on) cut out now fit flush around it all. I'm out of town right now but I'll post a pic of it once i get back next week.

I also think I want to spray the "hood" i built black.

Got hair algae growing like whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa right now, co2 hasn't been hooked up yet.