PDA

View Full Version : 6x24 Watt AquaticLife T5 with 4 LEDs for 20 gallon sps?

mooch1982
07/09/2011, 12:17 PM
Hey guys,

I have been looking at several fixtures lately for my 20 gallon tank, and really like the package this one provides for the price:

http://www.marinedepot.com/24_Inch_6x24_Watt_AquaticLife_T5_HO_Light_Fixtures_w_4_LEDs_24_Inch_T5_Fluorescent_Light_Fixtures-AquaticLife-AK01191-FILTFIT54U-AK01131-vi.html

I has 6 individual reflectors, and 5 LED's. Also has a built in digital timer and fan. Finally it comes with acrylic cover and adjustable leg mounts. 6 Bulbs included as well.

Now most people will say go with Tek or ATI. ATI is nice, but i don't have the option to hang them, nor the extra cash. Tek is also nice, but adds up in price when you add bulbs, cover, and legs.

Now i realize the Aquaticlife stock bulbs are lower in PAR compared to ATI or UVL bulbs, but remember, this unit has 6 bulbs. After a year I plan to change all bulbs to ATI and UVL.

My questions is, with the stock set-up, will i be able to support SPS in a 20 gallon tank that is 16 inches high?

I would think so, just because it has 6 bulbs as opposed to 4. Thoughts?
milesofreefs
07/09/2011, 12:38 PM
what size is you tank?
mooch1982
07/09/2011, 12:40 PM
20 gallon high. Will have a 10 gallon sump.
milesofreefs
07/09/2011, 12:42 PM
dem.?
mooch1982
07/09/2011, 12:44 PM
24 wide, 12 deep, 16 high.
milesofreefs
07/09/2011, 01:46 PM
i think the six bulb is to 14in wide imo you should go with the 4 bulb i had there 4 bulb fixture on my 29 and i had amazing growth from it
mooch1982
07/09/2011, 02:32 PM
Did you change the bulbs and keep SPS?
milesofreefs
07/09/2011, 02:53 PM
i didnt change the bulbs and yes kept some sps under it but you have a 20 gall your going to have the same wattage as i did and your tanks 2in shorter and 6 in shorter from side to side, with that your at about 4 watts per gallon they recommend 3 to 5 from what ive been told and also the 6 bulb wont fit on you tank unless you hang it or make your own mounting system.
milesofreefs
07/09/2011, 02:57 PM
but if you do change the bulbs id recommend deepblue bulbs there bright i have them on my new 40b and damn there bright
ange062
07/09/2011, 04:26 PM
Sounds like good wattage for a 20 SPS IMO. I do think either a long or breeder are much better than a high or regular for an all SPS tank though.
gabe3eb
07/09/2011, 08:15 PM
Yes, its plenty for SPS. A 4 bulb fixture would work too.