Kessil A80

Vinh · May 17, 2017

My AI Prime light died on me. Only 1 1/2 years of proper usage. So disappointing - I just assumed these things would last much longer. I guess that's why their warranty is 1 year.

Any owners of the A80 that has lasted 2-3 years? I'm not feeling confident going back to another AI unit.

Vinh · May 17, 2017

Just saw there's a LED lighting forum. Not sure how to move this one over there. Maybe mods can help?

RyanCSGO · May 17, 2017

That's unfortunate

I don't think the A80 has even been out a year yet actually.
I've seen the A80 at my LFS, looks great and performs really well.

Water Dog · May 17, 2017

What size tank? Keep in mind, the AI Prime runs at 45 watts max power. The Kessil a80 runs at just 15 watts. Kessil's comparable fixture to the AI Prime in terms of wattage would the Kessil a160, running at 40 watts.

scott11 · May 17, 2017

I have a A80, but I think they are newer to the market, so not sure how they last. Seems very well built and with the cooling handled by heat sink and no fan, there is not much to break. I think its a really nice light, and higher quality than the AI prime I had before. Just not sure on the output. Seems find for softies, and has decent spread, but is unproven for higher demand corals.

Vinh · May 17, 2017

I have a standard 10 gallon and the AI Prime I had was on very low intensity throughout the day. I don't have any specific numbers but I'm hopeful the A80 will do fine for my all softies and LPS tank. I guess my question is more about Kessil build quality in general. I'm still miffed that a $200 light lasted only 18 months so currently turned off by AI.

@scott11 How long did your AI Prime last?

Shep · May 17, 2017

I would look into an A160, I had two that work perfectly until I changed over to T5s

Water Dog · May 17, 2017

If you're concerned about longevity, the a80 should bode well for you. As @scott11 mentioned, the a80 is passively cooled. Passive cooling is a huge plus as there is no fan to break and overheat the unit. As well, without fans, there is no dust build up within the light housing, which can lead to issues with the a160 and a360 "canister" style lights if not regularly opened up and cleaned.