Icecap T5 retro users?!

[PhLipStyLz]

can anyone tell me exactly how low this setup is using the standard T5 endcaps, standoffs, and icecap reflectors?

i plan on building a custom canopy and wanted to know the minimum clearance i needed. I know that reflector itself sits only 1" high. Does the endcaps, standoffs, and/or bulbs add any depth to that, if so can someone please measure that it for me...

thanks in advanced

[algaeguy]

I just installed some in my canopy, and it's about 3", with endcaps, standoff, reflector and bulb installed.

HTH

Scott

[PhLipStyLz]

thanks for the info! now i can get started!!

[jcm1229]

How far do you keep the bulbs above water?

[PhLipStyLz]

good question, i'm wondering the same thing

[algaeguy]

My canopy is about 10" high, and the bulbs stand down 3" from the top of the canopy, so it's 7" off the water surface, give or take. I have 12- 39 watt retros over my 40"x40"x22" high aquarium.

I could not believe how bright the IC T5's are...you'll like them!

[PhLipStyLz]

DAMNNNNN thats a lotta bulbs!! thats gotta be awesome to have that setup (i bet your electric bill is niiice too... haha)

are you overdriving each bulb w/ an icecap ballast?

[algaeguy]

Yep, it's really bright! I am using 3 IC 660's to power the whole thing. Even overdirven, I'm betting that my electric bill will be less than when I ran 750-1,000 of MH.

Regardless, I really like the T5's, and I love Icecap products. Basically, what I have is 3 4x39 retrofits installed in a three-section canopy. It is a lot of bulbs, but it makes sense for the coverage I need...Of course, it will be somewhat costly when it comes time to replace them, but still less than replaceing say, 3 or 4 D/E halides!

Scott

[PhLipStyLz]

VERY TRU! any pics of your setup??

[algaeguy]

I can take some and email 'em to you...I'm an incompetent at posting pics on RC!!

Shoot me a pm with your email and I can take them tonight!

Scott