Should I try to modify my T5 fixtures?

cvrle1 · Aug 7, 2019

Hello everyone. I have 2 old T5 fixtures that I bough years ago for my old 36 gallon tank. These units are at least 10 years old, but still work. I will be setting up a standard 120G tank (4x2x2) and was thinking about incorporating these T5s with LEDs that will be using as well. Since these are 36" long, they are a foot shorter than tank. I was thinking about ripping them open and trying to expand them to be 48' long, but not sure if I should even bother with that. I could just sell them, or re-purpose for something else, and replace with LED bars or new T5 fixture of proper length.

Which way would you go? Thanks for the help

Hemmdog · Aug 7, 2019

The wattage is different on longer bulbs.

Billldg · Aug 7, 2019

You may have to change the ballast, and possibly the wiring as the amp draw is different. I use a 36 in hybrid fixture on my 48 in tank and I like the lower par readings on the outside as it allows me to put lps frags there.

cvrle1 · Aug 7, 2019

Thanks both for the info. I wasnt aware that I would need to change ballast, so that would rule out the attempt of modification. It wouldnt be wroth it.

I was working under the assumption that one of the reasons why folks add T5 supplements is to eliminate shady areas on the sides, but your idea about LPSs makes sense as well. Gives me something to think about for sure.

Thanks again.