Is it time for me to replace my bulbs?

[fasteddie99]

Sorry, but I started a thread in the lighting forum but didnt get any responses.
Am I ready for replacement? About 9 months into existing bubs.
Also, Can someone point me in the right direction as to where to buy and what name brands should I be looking at? Its a Nova T-5 216 watt, 2 actinic, 2 10k...oh yeah, its 48"

Thanks Eddie

[thegrun]

10 months to a year is the general rule of thumb.

[josbur63]

I would agree that you should replace them every year.I currently have an 8 bulb nova extreme t-5 setup,and it seems corals started going downhill when I waited too long to replace my bulbs.I purchased my bulbs from reefgeek.com.They have many to choose from,and if you send them an e-mail they will give you suggestions on what they believe will work best.

[crvz]

I've overdriven my T5 bulbs for over 18 months without noticeable issues. On a nominally driven setup, I'd probably go at least that long. Unless you have a problem (or you have cheap bulbs), I'd wait quite a while. Though the nova units don't come with a great bulb, so you may consider it for that reason. UVL, ATI, Geissmann, and other high quality brands should last you well more than 9 months. I'd also recommend reefgeek.

[fasteddie99]

Ok thanks. I will wait a few more months and then start looking. Thanks for the reefgeek reference too.