T5 light shield necessary?

[flampton]

Was wondering about the lexan shield on my old aquatinics t5 fixture. I ran with it on ten plus years ago but it would collect salt spray and generally be problematic. I however ran the fixture directly laying on the top of the tank. I'm going to hang the unit now so was wondering if it was necessary? Do the newer fixtures even come with them?

Thanks-
E

 

[Doctorgori]

Sounds like an old Tek....I took mine off long ago

 

[eea60123]

Had one years ago and they are a pain when salt gets in it and locks it in place. Not like you can hose off the salt. I use retrofit t-5’s and don’t have a cover over them. I would definitely make sure your bulb’s end caps are sealed to prevent a short due to moisture.

 

[flampton]

Great! Thanks for the replies. Not sure about the endcaps, they can be replaced if I end up having problems. Maybe there's a diy method to cover them? Though they look exactly like the ATI sockets.

Second question, how often do you clean your bulbs and reflectors?
Thanks-
E