buying used 4 bulb T5 fixture

[LetItReef]

Hello,

I am planning to buy a t5 fixture and would like to know what I need to look out for- ballast/ etc? Thanks everyone!

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

The brand first. Burned tubes , burned or browned connector/sockets. Any sign of obvious money Work on the out side. Screws missing etc.

IMO, lots of channels so it’s not all on all off. The more channels the better IMO.
If it’s not , it’s fine , just have to consider how you use it.

 

[LetItReef]

I will be on the look out for those you mentioned- Thank you!
I would like to change the bulbs to my preference but how do I know or when do I need to replace the bulbs, lets say I have it ON for 6-7 hrs?

 

[tsav87]

Changes bulbs yearly, do it around black friday so you get the best deal.

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

Some do it on a set schedule , some use a lux meter to guage intensity loss, some use a par meter to guage spectrum and intensity loss.