How often to replace T5 bulbs?

[UCBryant]

I got a T5 fixture that came with 4 bulbs. It's been 4 months on those bulbs. I'm wondering when I should buy new ones.

Here is the fixture:

http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_viewItem~idProduct~CU01121.html

Can I mix URI and Giesemann bulbs? I assume the T5 HO connection is all standardized.

[MHannon]

I change mine out between 9 months and a year. Some people say they can last longer than 12 months, but I try to aim for every 10 or so months.

And yes, you can mix pretty much any brand of bulb. Just check that they are the same length and wattage. They are all fairly standard.

[UCBryant]

Thanks! I'll wait until summer then. I don't entirely trust these stock T5 bulbs and have been itching to play with the colors ... so sooner than 9 months for me this time around.

[shred5]

Yes you can mix uri and giesemann lamps...

I ussually change my t-5 every year. You can go longer but then there is a bigger difference in output between the new and old lamps which could be a problem..

Dave

[silverwolf72]

You can go longer but then there is a bigger difference in output between the new and old lamps which could be a problem..
Don't change all your lights out at one time, do one a week or one a month. The whiter lights will usually last longer the the actinic.I would shoot for a year on the actinic and 18months on the whiter ones.

[theimpulsive1]

every year

[devin]

do over-driving the bulbs impact their life? i.e. 4x54 on an icecap 660 running around 80 watts per bulb (with fans in the canopy for cooling)....?

[silverwolf72]

If you have them properly cooled they should last close to the same. It does cut down on there life but we only run them for about 1/2 of there intended life.