T5 bulbs how often you change them

[reefknight]

I replaced all 10 in my ATI PM fixture on 2/16/14. I can tell that I have some fading of colors on some SPS's so it's time to change them. So mine have been in 10 months. All ATI lamps.

 

[Montireef]

I replace my 42 ATI bulbs:

- Home aquariums every 12 months

- Outside aquariums every 24 months (as they sit under strong sunlight I only run them for about 4 hours per day, just to help in wintertime)

 

[Greenstreet.1]

8-10 months

 

[solitude127]

10 Months for me. I change them all at once but then cut my photoperiod in 1/2 and then add 1/2 hour each week after that.

 

[goodtimes]

This is a different topic all together but it depends on how many hours per day you light the tank. The difference between 8 hrs and 12 hrs is significant over 12 months.

 

[kacrocorals581]

at least a yr on mine everything still going good

 

[that Reef Guy]

They should be changed every 6 months, depending on how frequently they're used.
Otherwise, the par rating drops, as well as the kelvin ( Color temp ).

You'll start to notice abnormal algae growths.
Love my T5's, no matter which lights I go with, LED or MH, T5's are always there to compliment.

+1

And I cannot Vote because 6 Months is not on the Poll.

Can you add it please?

I cannot believe that you do not have 6 Months on there and have more than half the options after 12 Months.

I have never ever heard of anybody going past 12 Months with T5's.

And typically those that go a full year have ATI Fixtures for Maximum Performance.

2 Years?

Really?

 

[that Reef Guy]

Did any one check par on their new bulbs and then checked them again after 12 mo of use to see how much it dropped ?

I am very interested in that number because my LFS said at the 12 Month mark they retain 95% Intensity and it goes downhill quickly after 12 Months.

I know for a fact that is not the case because when I change my Bulbs at 6 Months they do not bother me but when I change them my Eyes Water (That is obviously not a 5 Percent difference - And that is at 6 Months not 12 Months).

I would love to see actual PAR Tests to see exactly how much is lost and when.

 

[reefknight]

I begin having algae issues and coloration decline at around 7-8 months, usually try to stretch them till 9 months though. Previously I've listed my run times and I do have an ATI fixture. I am at 12 months right now due to financial issues and let me say they need to go! Tax return hits in a couple of days and new lamps are a must. I have never let mine go this long and it is showing, badly. I don't have access to a PAR meter or I would love to take readings for everyone.

As far as 95% intensity, I don't buy it either. If they have 70% left I'd be shocked. I don't want to knock the LFS, but it sounds as if he's trying to make a sale and giving bad info.