Bad bulb?

[AZdogpatch06]

I'm using a dual T5 HO fixture on my 25 gallon nano reef tank that's using a 10,000K bulb and an actinic bulb. The 10,000K bulb will not light up unless you tap on it. I've switched the two bulbs and it happens in either slot, while the actinic bulb works perfectly fine in either slot. I also took a T5 normal output bulb out of my freshwater lighting unit, and it fires up just fine in the T5 HO unit on my reef tank. Given this information, I don't think it's the balast or a starter but since bulbs are $25 a pop I wanted to get a second opinion first!

Sent from my SM-G900V using Aquarium Advice mobile app

 

[wildroseofky]

Fluorescent tubes do that when they are ready to go out. It isn't a good idea to put a T5NO bulb in a T5HO fixture. It can cause it to shatter or spark and start a fire. You need a new bulb. Check out this site 1000bulbs.com. I have had good luck getting bulbs there at a great price.