Changing bulbs

[Alexis.Nunez]

Okay I have a different kind of lighting question. I'm a noob when it comes to aquariums but I just acquired a 90 gal tank with a coralife 2 x 150 HQI MH. The bulbs still work perfically fine but i was told that the bulbs are almost 3 years old and they NEED to be changed.

Why? What do new bulbs do the old working bulbs don't?

Thanks

 

[Caige]

you have to change them.... they won't put out the same spectrum...... i think MH's say they should be replaced 12-15 months.

 

[ryshark]

I agree, change them out...especially if you plan on keeping coral. When the spectrum shifts there is a chance it can cause more algae growth.

 

[melosu58]

I agree. Not sure what the time frame is but I know it`s not 3 yrs. Also moving this to General hardware and equipment discussion.

 

[JPKeenan]

It's sort of like having to change the oil in your car after X amount of miles. The coatings and filament (like the oil in the car) break down after time.... sort of like when you get old and your joints start getting sore .

Better to spend the money on the bulbs than to start having problems with your tank and wonder what is going on.

 

[Alexis.Nunez]

Okay thank guys. I bought new bulbs.

 

[mfdrookie516]

It's sort of like having to change the oil in your car after X amount of miles. The coatings and filament (like the oil in the car) break down after time.... sort of like when you get old and your joints start getting sore .

Better to spend the money on the bulbs than to start having problems with your tank and wonder what is going on.

nice comparison there jp, lol