Modding Fluval Evo 13.5 stock light

[fisherdonk]

Consensus about the stock light that comes with the Fluval Evo 13.5 is that it gets the job done. Many upgrade for better lights in the future, but many also stick with this good cheap option. It seems to me that the two major criticisms of this light are as follows:
- Lack of timer
- Lack of automated/timer based control for the light mode (Blue+White, Blue or Off are manually controlled)

The lack of timer is easily solved using the Nicrew Pro which is also a cheap option. However, I would like to modify the light to allow the timer (or a different timer) to switch modes as well. properly simulating dawn, dusk. I have yet to take apart the light as my tank is new, sensitive and I do not have a backup LED. However I was hoping that someone here has tried this or has a spare one and would be willing to contribute to this project for all our sakes. #DIYwizards

 

[Just John]

Just something to keep in mind if you decide on a new light that fits in the lid. I wanted to keep the lid, so here is what I did. See the second post here:

Build Thread - John's Fluval Evo 13.5

Nice but i will be running an AI prime 16 hd with a mess top. Not a fan of the cover look. That will definitely work better. I have been keeping the cover because I don't want to have a raised light that illuminates some the room and not just the fish tank. That would be fine in most of our...

www.reef2reef.com

 

[NeonRabbit221B]

I will follow along as I used this light until I eventually swapped them for lumi-lite strips and then further upgrades to a old kessil with the strips on custom dimmers/timers.

I think the main issue would be that the hardware would need to be modified and rewired but from what I remember the light itself is fairly sealed, correct? I think a cheaper and simpler option would be to modify the lid or use a water proof LED strip on the inside of the lid for antics.

 

[BrandonS]

If you want to diy something controllable rapid LED would be a good place to start. If you give them the light specs they may have a controllable driver that would work for the light. This would get you part way there. Then you would need a controller which they also may have but with all these bells and whistles the price begins to rise.

I have converted a cheap 24 inch led light bar over to controllable before. Also quantareef which is a new light company has hinted at a nano option. I like Luca and it may be something to check out.