PC getting old?

[canada911]

Little question here, I heard that fluorescent lighting can shift there light spectrum when getting older, is it true? Mine is 4 years old but they seem ok, could it cause a bloom of algae? 'cause I have some algae problem since 1-2 year...

Should I invest in changing them (those are expensive... )?

Thank!

 

[klam]

It's recommended to replace PC lights every 6-8 months due to spectrum shift that can cause un-wanted algae to grow.

If you got a reef tank I would suggest replacing the bulbs, it would greatly benefit your corals.

 

[captivereefs]

do not let them go past 9 months

 

[JPloman]

My husband and I let ours go for about 8 months and now we have a major problem with Cyno (red slime). This was a contributing factor to this problem.

 

[canada911]

ooooookay... There was that guy at one of my LFS that told me that this wasnt true... I guess he doesnt no crap out of his job.

Since I have MAJOR algae problem since a year and Since my PC are like 3 years old, I will follow all your advice and change them even if it is expensive.

Thanks for your advice all!!

 

[seaham358]

this hobby is not cheap and lights are one thing the cost $$$ on a regular basis. It kills me to replace my VHO bulbs every 6-8 months. They work fine, they look the same but I know what will happen if I don't.....
The guy at the LFS needs to learn more about his business.