I'd like to upgrade my t8's

[Markreed84]

Hey guys, just seeking a but if advice. I'm on a tight budget and have slowly converted a freshwater tank to marine that I plan to be a soft coral tank. It has fittings for 79cm t8 bulbs as you can see in the attached photo. I'd like to upgrade t5. Could I simply swap the t8 fittings for t5? Or would I have to get a new light unit? If so is their any I could fit under my existing lid or am I going to have to do away with the lid and get a suspended unit or maybe one that rest on the glass rim?

Thanks

Mark

 

[Hellothere12]

T5's will not work in or with a t8 fixture or ballast sadly. I would just remove the t8 bulbs and buy two of these guys.
https://www.amazon.com/Sunblaster-O...=9015315&hvtargid=pla-311792259791&psc=1&th=1

Then of course buy the right bulbs for your tank this would be the cheapest way to do it. Or just spend the little extra cash on a
Coralife Dual Fixture High Output T5 Aquarium Light Fixture, 48" Length, 48 IN
$144.89
Petco

 

[Markreed84]

Ideally I'd prefer the first option my only concern is condensation damaging the fixture, I guess I could silicone it then just reapply each time I change the bulb?

Thanks

 

[Hellothere12]

I wouldn't silicone them bc the t5 bulds get warm. Plus if you need to change both bulbs your tank will be out of light for 24 hours. If I were you and decide to got that route I would just buy a thin sheet of glass to cover them

 

[jda]

Which ballast? Many will fire T12, T8 and T5 if you just switch the endcaps.

 

[Mastiffsrule]

Welcome to the group @Markreed84 and @Hellothere12.

Looks like both are new and ready to help and ask questions, @jda mentioned, google your ballast and see if it will work with t5. There are lots of retro kits available also that are fairly cheap. Usually the costs come in the bulbs. No silicone. Get end caps and other items designed for intended use. Safety first.

And welcome