How to tell when a bulb needs to be changed

[fishtankdon]

I have a 250w DE Pheonix 14k. Curious how can you tell by looking at it. Not sure on age of bulb. Does it get less blue, or burn coral? Any ideas are welcome..

 

[gflat65]

It's hard to tell without a meter or without a reference. Seeing it everyday, you may never tell. Usually, they'll dim and the colors won't pop as much. I replace my DE's every 12 months just to be on the safe side (SE's at 9 months, PC/VHO's at 6 months). That may be a bit overkill, but I can always tell the difference and would rather be safe than sorry.

 

[coralfarm123]

I agree with gflat. The phoenix bulbs are good at holding their overall par and I remember reading somewhere that they are about 80% efficient at 1 year and drop to about 70% efficiency at 2 years, but what I read did not speculate or give information about the color shift that takes place. I use phoenix bulbs and replace every 6-12 months.

 

[fishtankdon]

Ok great. I was told every 6 months is good, but just cant tell how old my bulb is. Its still really blue, and great growth. Thanks for the input.

 

[Pufferpunk]

What about T5s?

 

[gflat65]

I've not had T5's yet, but I hear they are supposed to go a bit longer. I'd like to see some studies on par ratings over time...

 

[lanxang]

here is an article from reefkeeping in regards to Phoenix bulbs

 

[VanHalen]

Welcome aboard imike24!

I think 9 months is a good medium for most halides and pc's. I've heard t5's can go as long a 24 months before needing a replacement

 

[dmjordan]

if you are not sure of the age than i would go ahead and replace it. mark the date on the new bulb with a sharpie so you know when to replace it.

 

[gflat65]

My budget drives my replacements. When it says its time to order, its time to replace.

 

[dmjordan]

i hear you on that one......