Upgrade Time - T5 to LED

[ReefGeezer]

Hi all,

I have a very mature 4' 90 gallon mixed reef. It is currently lighted by a Sunpower 8X 54 Watt T5 Fixture. PAR/PUR is not an issue with this arrangement, but "POP" could be better. I am considering changing to an LED or at least a hybrid fixture. So, what would everyone recommend for LED or hybrid fixtures... and how many? Thanks in advance for your input.

 

[edsbeaker]

Hi all,

I have a very mature 4' 90 gallon mixed reef. It is currently lighted by a Sunpower 8X 54 Watt T5 Fixture. PAR/PUR is not an issue with this arrangement, but "POP" could be better. I am considering changing to an LED or at least a hybrid fixture. So, what would everyone recommend for LED or hybrid fixtures... and how many? Thanks in advance for your input.

Hi, I think it would be helpful if you let us know what types of coral you are keeping and your budget.

 

[FrugalReeferJon]

Some reefers would consider T5 to LED a downgrade, just sayin.

 

[oreo54]

Hi all,

I have a very mature 4' 90 gallon mixed reef. It is currently lighted by a Sunpower 8X 54 Watt T5 Fixture. PAR/PUR is not an issue with this arrangement, but "POP" could be better. I am considering changing to an LED or at least a hybrid fixture. So, what would everyone recommend for LED or hybrid fixtures... and how many? Thanks in advance for your input.

Decided to break Reefers Rule # 2?
Anyways a lot of wattage to replace.

Changing from the flat t5 look to one with the mh,Led look is fairly drastic.
Might help also to give a reason why you want to change.
Just pop? One can add supplemental led bars .

To start though you might like panels better than other types .
Reefbreeder Meridians come to mind . High wattage, semi-full panel.

 

[steveschuerger]

If you’re seriously considering this ReefBreeders lights are fantastic, I had the Photon v2 series myself. Another option to consider is ReeFi Uno 2.1 . You’d need at least two, preferably 3 but they’re fantastic lights in a small package.

 

[VintageReefer]

Decided to break Reefers Rule # 2?
Anyways a lot of wattage to replace.

Changing from the flat t5 look to one with the mh,Led look is fairly drastic.
Might help also to give a reason why you want to change.
Just pop? One can add supplemental led bars .

To start though you might like panels better than other types .
Reefbreeder Meridians come to mind . High wattage, semi-full panel.

The meridians coverage, par, and spectrum are excellent and I would highly recommend them.

If your tank has a center brace like me, then dual meridian 11’s, the linking bars, and side mounts.

If you don’t have a center bar/brace, then the Meridian 35 and side mounts

 

[Crabs McJones]

If your tank is mature and your corals are happy

 

[56longroof]

I'd keep the T5 and add a LED bar. Or change the bulb arrangement. What are you using now? More actinic would enhance coral fluorescence some. I run a MH/T5 fixture and my favorite time to watch the tank is when the halides are off.

 

[Reginald Reefer III]