BRS T5 Retrofit Kit question

[jgvergo]

I bought a 48"/54W T5 Retrofit Kit for my build. I was under the incorrect impression that the bulbs were actually less than 48". My aquarium is exactly 48" wide, so I don't think I can use a 48" bulb and fit it into my hood (which I am building).

Soooo, my question is can I use my existing kit with a 36" bulb, i.e. can I use the ballast with lower wattage bulbs.

Alternative question: Are there good bulbs that are in the 44-46 inch range?

 

[furam28]

You cannot use 36" bulbs with 54w kit. The kit comes with ballast for 54w bulbs and the 36" bulbs are 39w and will get fried.

 

[furam28]

If your aquarium is exactly 48" wide you should be able to fit the 48" retrofit kit with no problem. They list the bulbs as 48" but the actual length is slightly smaller. Are these going in a canopy?

 

[jgvergo]

Yes, they are going into a canopy. I thought I remembered reading that the bulbs are actually less than 48 inches. Do you know their exact length?

 

[redfishbluefish]

Bulb alone 45 3/16. Including the prongs 45 7/8.

 

[furam28]

Yes, its smaller. I am not sure which kit you bought. Is it the Miro? Looking at the Wavepoint retro kit: http://www.wave-point.com/images/WavePoint product flyer.pdf Their 48" fixture has an overall actual dimension of 46.5" including the holders. So I think you should be fine.

 

[jgvergo]

Fantastic!!! Thanks RFBF and Furam28

 

[acropora4u]

my canopy is 49 long and I have room to spare with the 48" t5 retro

 

[Pfisherman]

You will fit the 54w bulbs probably, but you can also overdrive the 39w bulbs. The lifespan will be decreased though.