1 -48 inch t5 v/s 2 24 inch t5 bulbs

[conkyy]

I am looking for ideas when I upgrade my lighting. Right now there's a pair of 24 inch fixtures with a t-8 18" bulb in each. Its a 12'' x 48'' top 60 gallon. Is there any reason to upgrade to t-5's if I don't plan on corals? Do I need to consider price, is it cheaper to replace 2 48's or 4 shorter bulbs? Will the 48'' bulbs fall short on the amount of light I need?
Thanks!

 

[carey]

If you have no desire for corals then your lights are fine. You could change the color of the bulb or something but fish don't require T5's.

 

[conkyy]

From what Ive looked up, the bulbs are the same price pretty much. 1- 24'' cost the same as 1 -48''. But... will 2 bulbs give more light?

 

[conkyy]

OK thanks! But If decide to add corals, 2 t-5s or 4?

 

[Sarcothelia]

4 48" T5s if you're gonna go the coral route.

 

[conkyy]

I have seen hoods with pl ( compact) bulbs. There U shaped with 4 pins on 1 end. Anyone used these?