Read About Fluorescent Lighting Fixtures

Fluorescent Lighting Fixtures - What are they?

1. Description:

   Fluorescent lighting fixtures provide a cooler, more efficient lighting system than incandescent or metal halide bulbs.

2. Who Needs These?

   Any person wanting a safe, low-cost method of lighting their aquarium would benefit from these light fixtures.

3. Why Do You Need These?

   Fluorescent lighting, particularly "full-spectrum" tubes, comes as close to sunlight as possible in an artificial setting.

4. Types:

   Different types of fluorescent fixtures include standard, actinic, HO (high output), VHO (very high output), and special tubes to encourage plant growth. Fluorescent bulbs come in T8, T10, and T12 tubes and in lengths from 18 to 48 inches, depending on the size of the tank. Compact fixtures are also available.

5. Benefits:

   Fluorescent light fixtures are more energy efficient than incandescent lighting and metal halide bulbs. They also stimulate plant growth in the aquarium.

6. Uses:

   Fluorescent fixtures can be used in any type of aquarium setup.

Fluorescent Lighting Fixtures - Tips

1. Varieties:

   Fluorescent lighting fixtures are available in standard and compact sizes, in standard high-output, and very high-output varieties.

2. Quality Choices:

   Higher-cost lighting fixtures are generally a higher quality lighting fixture.

3. Where to Use:

   Standard-sized fixtures can be used with larger tanks, while compact bulbs can be used with smaller tanks or larger tanks as a single lamp or in a multiple-bulb system.

Fluorescent Lighting Fixtures - Concerns

1. Safety Issues:

   Because of their cooler temperature output, fluorescent bulbs are safer than incandescent or metal halide bulbs.

2. Behavioral Issues:

   If the lighting is too bright for the fish, they may hide. You should make sure you use the proper wattage of lighting for the type of fish you have in the tank.

3. Convenience:

   Fluorescent lighting is very convenient because the bulbs can be found in many different types of stores.

Fluorescent Lighting Fixtures - How to Choose

1. What to Look For:

   You should look for higher-end lighting fixtures because a cheaper fixture may not start up at all or may "pulsate" when the light is powered on. You need to be sure to select a lighting fixture that is suitable for the size of aquarium that you own.

2. Expense:

   Fluorescent lighting fixtures are comparably less expensive, mainly because of their energy efficiency and life span, than other kinds of lighting.

3. Other Items You Might Need:

   If you use VHO (Very High Output) bulbs, these bulbs run hotter than the standard or High Output bulbs. For that reason, you would need to use a chiller when using the VHO bulbs.