VHO lights - how old is too old?

[RTZX9R]

Hi All,

New here- I have my old tank again to set up- around 8 years old. I have an ICECAP ballast and 4 old (6-8 years or so) 110watt 48" VHO lights - 2 actinic/blue and 2 normal.

I need to replace these, right? I want to set up a reef tank- live rock, some corals, and some fish/inverts. Is this my optimal choice- for a 60 gallon tank?

Thanks!

[segen77]

Welcome to the forum.

Your lighting is really going to depend on what you're wanting to keep in the tank. I personally like the MH option so that you can put some of the more needy corals (and it makes that cool shimery look ;) ) The down side is the heat issue that halides cause. This is why so many stick with VHO's and PC lighting.

If you do stay with the VHO's, I would guess that the bulbs need to be replaced after 8 years.

[Condiman]

I would have to say in general that all bulbs should be replaced after 12 to 16 months of age.

[icereefer]

I would have to agree with brad on this one.
myself I'm a light junky. I run VHO's in my 37gal I like to change mine every 10 month's I just have noticed my corals start to look less colorful in the 12 to 16 month range

[Condiman]

Everyone has there preference but I think 12 to 16 is the most anyone should go

[specsgirl]

I too agree that around a year to a year and a half they should be replaced.

[icereefer]

yes most defently. on the 12 to 16 month's
Flourescent Bulbs Degrade with age and may lose up to 50% of there initial intensity after a year of operation.