DIy Biocube 14 to LED Conversion

[Zazvor92]

Wanted to share my experience upgrading the lighting on my Biocube 14 to LED.
I like the look of the top lid so i didn't want to remove the lid and have an open top.
My solution was pretty simple. and keeps the clean look.
I purchased a Fuval Marine Nano light from amazon $90 (Make sure to choose the "marine" option, gutted the inside of the lid, and command stripped the light into the lid where the old florescent bulbs were.
I kept the two fans for cooling and wired such that one of the original switches runs only the fans!
Happy to answer any questions on this easy upgrade to LED!

Lid gutted with only the fans remaining.

Nano fits quite nicely when placed sideways. Would also fit witha 90 degree rotation but would require a slot be cut in the black plastic for the power cord.

Pic from the LED side. Used two velcro type command strips so that it can be removed if needed.

Pic of the fan wiring. used the power cord that was originally used for the stock blue LED's. The transformer steps the voltage down from 120 at the wall to 12v for the fan. Original control board used as well.

Pic of the tank a month after setup.This is with the lights at about 50% of the default value in the app while i make it through the ugly stage.

 

[FishFamilyRobinson]

Very nice! I just gutted the lid of my old Biocube 29 and have been debating cutting a hole in it. I might try this instead.

 

[Zazvor92]

Very nice! I just gutted the lid of my old Biocube 29 and have been debating cutting a hole in it. I might try this instead.

I figured trying to retrofit with no cutting first.
the nano is probably a bit small for the 32 gal. What light were you going to use ?

 

[Oceanwolf]

Good work