how often to change T5 bulbs

[A_Z]

I read T5 bulbs last anywhere from 18-24 months between getting new bulbs?

[Playerdrm]

I change mine every 9 months. I've read after that the spectrum starts to shift and you also start losing par.

[mssvp]

Nine months sounds about right.


mssvp

~~~~~ >((((

[A_Z]

thanks I might just go with AI LED since changing $150 worth of bulbs every 9 months will get old and MH I never liked.

[aaparkr]

I change mine every 12-13 months. I initially heard that they last 2 years, but after about 15 months I start having algae blooms.
Let me know if you go to LEDS. I really like the idea, but they seem to be too focused (straight down) to be the main source

Tony
I have LED landscape lights and they are as good or better than the incandescents for about 20% of the energy.

[A_Z]

I change mine every 12-13 months. I initially heard that they last 2 years, but after about 15 months I start having algae blooms.
Let me know if you go to LEDS. I really like the idea, but they seem to be too focused (straight down) to be the main source

Tony
I have LED landscape lights and they are as good or better than the incandescents for about 20% of the energy.

yeah I will I think suspending pretty high up and using enough modules should be enough and I think the optics are already 70 degrees for more spread.

[Kbra84]

It also depends on what type of corals you are keeping. With softies you can probably run them to failure or till the colors go off. Sps should follow that 9 monthish rule.