Biocube 14 Bulb change !?

[MSunkin23]

So, I have had this tank with original PC bulbs for over a year, at what point in time do you want to change to new bulbs ?

Do you wait until they blow out ?

There is 1 x actinic and 1 x 10k bulb. Opinions ?

-Mike

 

[SSV3NOM]

Typically... you change the bulb anywhere from 8-12 months, BUT... it depends on your photo period.

Some people have their lights running anywhere from 6 - 12hours per day.

It may be hard to notice, but on my 6g Nanocube, I've actually noticed the bulb become slightly dimmer than a fresh bulb.

You don't want to wait till the bulb "blows out" because well before it even starts to blow out, the light spectrum will narrow and may give you wavelengths that will only initiate nuisance algae growth.

 

[MSunkin23]

Hey, thanks for the reply. I have been aware of those two symptoms you mentioned. The change in hue of the light, and the algae (macro algae). I run my lights a little long because I usually entertain guests late at night, and my seem to love the tank. A dark tank does no justice!

I am probably going to purchase a new set today online. Thanks for the feedback SSV3NOM, I appreciate it.

-Mike

 

[MSunkin23]

Also, has anyone used the Nanotuners PC-R Bulbs, they claim 50% more light for the same amount of watts using reflection of some kind.

Any takers ???