DIY LED/T5 for my new 180 Build

SmyrnaReefer · Sep 27, 2012

Im upgrading from a 125 to 180. i currently run a 72" nova extreme pro 12 bulb fixture. i want to start using LEDs, but dont want to go straight LEDs. i have mached up an idea and would like some opinions. again this is a first draft and am looking for ideas or suggestions. i have only drawn out one 36" section. my idea is to double it on the other side. the LEDs are ~5" apart side to side and the rails are ~3" apart front to back. right now there are 3 rows of each LED and T5. LEDs will be dimmable and tank will be a mixed reef.

couple of questions i have:

Is the number of LEDs (21 per side) enough in addition to the T5s?
Should there be another row of T5s or LEDs at either end?
More LEDs spaced closer together?
Different combination of LEDs?
T5 bulb combination suggestions? im thinking, coral plus, purple plus, and something else.....
Do you have any other suggestions?

ReefLEDLights · Sep 27, 2012

Personally I would go 100% LED

Its much less expensive in the long run and if done right better looking.

Bill

gmoney243 · Sep 28, 2012

More leds closer together no more than 4" apart. t5 and led whites easily drown out blues so if ur doing 3 bulbs do like a purple+ and 2 blue+. You only need royal blue and cw. There is no missing spectrum on leds I can make my corals look the same but t5 adds some clearity and helps with shadowing. Also seems to help some corals color up faster. Not sure why you aren't asking in your local club forum where plenty of people have led and t5 experience lol

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