TX5 Directly on Tank or with Legs?

[skunkiechris]

I'm planning on ordering the TX5 fixture for my 72 bowfront, which I will not be putting a top on. I know the fixture can sit directly on the tank...what I'm wondering is if I do that, will the shield quickly gets dirty due to salt spray, etc?

Is there any compelling reason to put it directly on the tank vs using the legs? (Stronger light, etc?)

Thanks!

[Aquactinics]

chris,

How quick your splash shield gets "dirty" will depend on how much surface agitation or micro bubbles you have in your tank. Having the fixture on the riser brackets will reduce the number of times you need to wipe down the splash shield. Having the fixture sitting directly on the tank will increase the light in your tank, but since it's only a 72" bow you'll have more then enough light into your tank with the risers on.

Thank you,

Tom
Aquactinics

[skunkiechris]

Thanks for the quick response!

So really, there's no good reason NOT to use the risers, correct?

[Aquactinics]

Chris,

In your case, either way would be just fine. The pros for having it sit directly on the tank are more light directly into the tank, less chance of fish jumping out, and looks better right on top (IMO). Otherwise, you will not have any problems keeping corals alive and healthy with the fixture raised.

Thank you,

Tom
Aquactinics

[my2girls]

Tom, when placing the fixture directly on the tank with no glass canopy, is there a bracket or something to keep the fixture from accidentally being knocked into the tank?

[Aquactinics]

my2girls,

Yes. We call them tank mounting brackets and they attached to the back ends of the fixture to keep it from moving left or right. They now come standard with all our T5 fixtures. They can also be purchased seperately for thoses that have older models of our fixtures.

Thank you,

Tom
Aquactinics