What size t5 fixture for 48 inch tank?

[mbarber87]

I feel like I’m over thinking this. But would I want the 48 inch fixture or the 36?

 

[andrewey]

I would go with the 48. You can go with the 36, but you are limited at the edges (more than just 6" from the edge of the glass in each direction as the ends up the field will have lower par values).

 

[mbarber87]

I would go with the 48. You can go with the 36, but you are limited at the edges (more than just 6" from the edge of the glass in each direction as the ends up the field will have lower par values).

Thanks. Do you know if the 48 inch would bleed a lot of light into the room being so wide? Or is it pretty good directionally into the tank ?

 

[andrewey]

Are you going with a standalone fixture or are your T5s going in a canopy? I find the height over the tank and the height of the canopy (if applicable) has a big impact on light spill.

 

[mbarber87]

Are you going with a standalone fixture or are your T5s going in a canopy? I find the height over the tank and the height of the canopy (if applicable) has a big impact on light spill.

I was thinking of a t5/led hybrid. Ideally mounted with this:

Floating Suspension Hybrid Light Fixture Hanging System - Black

Designed for Aquatic Life Hybrid Light Fixtures & Compatible With Many Others! Delicately float your light fixture above your aquarium using Aquatic Life’s floating mounting system. By securing your light fixture to the wall behind your tank you can eliminate the long suspension cables and the...

www.bulkreefsupply.com

 

[andrewey]

I'm guessing your light spill will be pretty minimal if you keep the close to the water and will likely increase if you decide to suspend it >12" fro the surface of the water.

The only other thing I would make sure you've considered is seating around the tank if the tank is located in a room where the people in the room will sit. As the viewer's eyes are lower, open lights can sometimes be an eyesore and this can impact the hanging height. This is largely a matter of preference, but is definitely something to keep in mind and you might want to play around with. Just something to be aware of if hadn't crossed your mind (would be true with both 36" and 48").

 

[vetteguy53081]

Either 48" or pair of 24"

 

[dragon99]

I'd definitely go with the 48". Light spill will be minimal if you mount it low enough.

BRS gives some good numbers on it

 

[WIReefer]

Definitely go 48 won’t be much light spill at all

 

[mbarber87]

Great thanks everyone!