Using PVC pipe to hang lights across a canopy?

[BrewPug]

I'm building a canopy and plan to hang a pair of Kessil 360s from a rod spanning the canopy. I was going to just ziptie the pendent lights to hang from the rod. That way, I can easily slide them left to right for spread adjustments or tank maintenance.

I was planning on using a piece of 3/4" PVC for the rod, since I already have it laying around and it is lightweight and water resistant. But, now I'm wondering if the inside of the PVC pipe might accumulate moisture and become a breeding ground for funk. Would I be better off using some type of solid core rod (like a wooden dowel) or will the PVC not get funkified like I'm worried about?

 

[Greybeard]

PVC doesn't stand up to load very well... It's likely to sag over time. As far as 'funk' goes, you could put a couple of end caps on to prevent that, but I'd probably go with a wooden dowel, properly sealed in some manner. I'd probably just spray it with a couple coats of krylon.

 

[rmmcguire15]

Another option would be using metal. Black RGS conduit would look good with the black lights. If you're worried about weight aluminum would be an option too.

 

[nautical_nathaniel]

I agree with @Greybeard , PVC will sag from the weight of two Kessils. I would go with a wooden dowel or some aluminum angle stock.

 

[BrewPug]

Thanks folks. Appreciate the advice.

 

[Larry L]

PVC doesn't stand up to load very well... It's likely to sag over time. As far as 'funk' goes, you could put a couple of end caps on to prevent that, but I'd probably go with a wooden dowel, properly sealed in some manner.

If you like the look of the PVC better, you could put a dowel inside it, and then cap the ends.

 

[wattson]

use light gauge metal conduit,not ridged heavy wall conduit ,cut it size and put pvc end caps/plugs on the ends and paint it black..not too heavy but strong enough to the job..
i use it for all lights