Retro Light DIY

ReeferRob · 10-25-2009, 06:42 PM

Is it still necessary for me to add fans to my new light canopy? Even though its not inclosed like a fixture and is completely exposed?
Obviously not concerned with tank temp but more durability and par of bulbs.
Thanks

jojo22 · 10-25-2009, 07:03 PM

Fans NEVER hurt. All electronics will last longer and stay stronger the cooler they are kept. It's just the way they work.

tazzy695 · 10-26-2009, 06:53 PM

rob is this for the lights you just built with the icecap balast if so i would highly recomend fans as bulbs beeing over driven tend to put off more heat and should be cooled if possible

ReeferRob · 10-26-2009, 08:23 PM

See I don't know squat about Retros...........the IceCap 660 is an over drive ballast?
How high should I have my lights over the water surface?

tazzy695 · 10-26-2009, 08:38 PM

yes icecap ballasts are over drive ballasts so for. your 24" bulbs you are pushing more. wattage then what they say I think it s 32w instead of. 24 so coolng the bulbS iS highly recomnded for longer life

tazzy695 · 10-26-2009, 08:42 PM

As for height most people run t5s about. 2 to 6 inch above the. Water

ReeferRob · 10-26-2009, 09:16 PM

I have T5's and have owned different fixtures in the past. I am familiar with there benefits and power.
I am not with retros and over driven under driven ballast stuff.

Sir Patrick · 10-26-2009, 09:30 PM

I agree with tazzy. Keeping the bulbs and ballest cool will help them last longer.

As far as heating the water goes- as long as you have good surface agitation, you probly dont have to worry much about them heating the water.