Light fixture question

**Mallenco** · 01-29-2013, 03:12 AM

I recently bought a used aquarium that came with two light fixtures that I don't recognize. There were no bulbs with it. Can someone help me identify what kind of bulbs they take? Also, are they any good or should I go back to the t5's I'm used to?image.jpg image.jpg

**fishn00b** · 01-29-2013, 03:22 AM

I think that is for curved fluorescent light bulbs which I believe are usually T8. I think that's older tech and your T5 are most likely better, especially if they are HO.

**Goes to 11!** · 01-29-2013, 03:46 AM

Originally Posted by Mallenco

There were no bulbs with it. Can someone help me identify what kind of bulbs they take? Also, are they any good or should I go back to the t5's I'm used to?image.jpg image.jpg

Google image search "Square pin CFL bulbs" and look for something close to the length of your reflector [Unless the ballast has a power rating listed on it, Then use that.]

CFLs are not bad lights at all [Not quite as efficient as T5s IIRC] but your bigger issue is that the reflector is going to cause a LOT or restrike [Light reflected back into the bulb] which is not the best use of the light produced ya know? Good reflectors really do make all the difference.