One more lighting question needs answer please

[The Baron]

If I had a total of 56 watts of regular t5 lighting, how much would that amount equal in t8.

RIght now I have a total of 36 watts of t8, if I went to the 56 watts of t5, what would be the equivalent in t8? How many watts would I gain?

If I gather correct, 1 watt of t5 is not the same as 1 watt of t8, correct?


THanks,

Dan

[jsoong]

Is this a FW planted tank?

It depends a bit on the bulb (some are better than others), but in general, a T8 W is equal to ~1.25 T12 (normal output) W. T5's are around 1.4-1.5. So the T5 is maybe 1.1-1.2 x the T8.

If this is a reef, then I don't know what I am talking about!

[The Baron]

Hi jsoong, yes it is a freshwater planted tank.

[Crepe]

What's the volume of your tank? I'd say the conversion is pretty arbitrary. T5 with good reflectors will mostly be medium light and higher. If you were to use the 1.5 rule that would slap me at 4.2 watts per gallon which I don't think is correct, as in that's too high.

[The Baron]

Standard 55 gallon 48x12.5x20

[Crepe]

Medium lighting I would say.

[jsoong]

Agree. 56W T5 over a 55, with a good reflector, would put you in medium range.

[The Baron]

Thank you all.

t5no is the way to go for me.

Less expensive the ho

Dan