1st Post - How to adequately illuminate a 20 gal hex

[Ampersand]

Hello All. First Post here. I've been reading and enjoying the site for awhile now, and thought i'd post a question on an issue that i've struggled with for many years now.

I've owned this 20 gallon hexagon All-Glass tank for about 10 years now. It's great for room corners and general entertainment purposes, but it is greatly lacking in one particularly glaring department..... lighting.

I would really like to be able to grow live plants in this tank. I've tried in the past, failing to one degree or another. The hood comes with a 14 watt, 15" tube. That comes out to .7 watts per gallon. I've read (on here) that i should be aiming for more than twice that amount. One thing i will mention, is that the tank sits in the corner between two large windows, and gets a little morning and a lot of evening (direct) sunlight.

I've looked online for alternative hoods, both glass and plastic, but haven't found ANYTHING. I would be willing to go "topless" if i could find a good looking ballast to go with the faux-oak of the tank. I'm trying to keep it looking as aethestically pleasing as possible, as it sits in the main living area. I realize it may be a hinderence, but appearance must remain the #1 priority. If it means going back to fake plants, then so be it.

I'd very much appreciate any suggestions you can offer. Thanks, and what a great forum you have here!

[jaysee]

Well first off, welcome to AC!

I have a couple suggestions for you (surprise surprise :ssmile: ). First, get a glass top if you don't already have one (they're cheap). The hoods are very limiting in your lighting options. After you have that, you can either double up on light fixtures, or you can go for a compact flourecent light. The compacts put out 3 times what the standard lights do. They also cost 3 times as much, but the bulb lasts for 2 years rather than 6 months. Also, they consume less energy. There is a larger up front investment, but it's cheaper in the long run. 2 watts per gallon will grow just about anything you want.

I just remembered you said you looked for a glass top...I KNOW I saw one when I was looking for a top for my 55, just have to remember where.

[Oscar_freak12321]

I second everything jaysee said. He's right on the dot. Welcome to the forum!

[jaysee]

Now that I'm looking for it I can't find it.

You could go to a glass shop and have them cut 2 pieces and then buy the connector piece. That would be pretty easy.

[Ampersand]

The problem i've found is finding a glass top that fits my hexagon tank. Yes, i guess i could consult a glass maker, but i'd like a ready-made product if one exists.

Thanks for the tip about the CFLs.