CF vs. T5?

[gm72]

I'm not sure I understand the differences between the bulbs (other than the obvious physical differences). Which is technically "better" or is there even an answer to that question?

[Drumachine09]

T-5s ARE CFs.

Are you thinking of PCs(Power compacts) the ones that screw in an incandecent socket?

[gm72]

No, but this just confirms my confusion!

If I look at Bigalsonline, I see different menus for bulbs. Look here and you will see choices for T-5 (they actually have it listed as TS) as well as power compact.
http://www.bigalsonline.com/BigAlsUS/ctl3684/cp18356/cl0/lighting

So, I have the screw-in type from Coralife, the same CFs that I use in all of my light fixtures in the house. The Power Compacts listed on the site don't screw in at all and are very different.

Lord help me, I'm so confused!

[cocoa_pleco]

i prefer T-5's over compact fluorescent, i hate compact fluorescent. T-5's are pretty bright too

[elmer]

I think they're all flourescent - T-5's are regular, T-5 refers to the size.

Compact refers to ones that are folded.

[gm72]

i prefer T-5's over compact fluorescent, i hate compact fluorescent. T-5's are pretty bright too

Can you help me understand why you prefer T5 vs. CF?

[cocoa_pleco]

i actually talked to the guys at the store, and they said that CF make more nasty nitrogen bubbles. they almost made a huge sale off of me for a 100W CF fixture for $200 then they told me i for sure wouldnt want it for a planted tank because of the nitrogen bubbles, so i just got 2 fluorescent fixtures for $60.

[Lady Hobbs]

T5 Bulbs - are 5/8" diameter fluorescent tubes rather than the standard 1-1/2" diameter. This slim profile makes the Aquatic T5 Fluorescent system more efficient than standard fluorescent tubes. T5 fluorescent bulbs also put out more light than standard fluorescent lamps, power compacts and VHOs.

Maybe this will help?

[gm72]

This will help indeed. Thank you! :c1:

[Algenco]

T5's are more efficient and there is less restrike due to the smaller diameter.

40 watts from T5 yields roughly the same amount of usable light as 60 watt from T12's

[gm72]

Restrike means...?

Edit: You know, we need to add a smiley to our repertoire that represents "DUH!"

[elmer]

Restrike means...?

Edit: You know, we need to add a smiley to our repertoire that represents "DUH!"
Light reflecting off the reflector back into the bulb - i.e. wasted light.

[gm72]

Got it, thanks for the clarification.