A great refugium lightbulb, IMHO!

[melev]

Hi guys.

For the past year and a half, I've used this bulb to light my refugiums.

http://www.melevsreef.com/pics/6500Kspiralbulb.jpg

About two weeks ago, I switched to a different bulb, that is 5100K and costs $10 at Home Depot. My refugium growth has massively increased, to where I have a block of cheatomorpa and caulerpa in there.

http://www.melevsreef.com/pics/0104/new_bulb.jpg

What I like about this bulb is I didn't have to use a reflector any more, because this floodlight-bulb has one internally. No heat issues to cause the ceramic base to overheat, and the plants are thriving.

The first bulb cost me $7, but this one seems so much better. Plus it is very easy to wipe off the floodlight bulb!

Edited on September 3rd:

The 51K lights are available special order from Home Depot.

They only come in single packs and the price I was quoted was $9.42 each + tax.

The model number I was given from the manufacturer and gave to HD was 1P381951K.

I'm assuming the 1P designates a single pack and the 51K is the temp.


HTH

[luceneck]

Thanks for the idea, looking forward to more! :D

[THE GIMP]

I am currently using the lamp you switched from, and my fuge grows slowly. I will try the new one, Thanks for sharing !!!

[melev]

I think you will be pleasantly surprised. It was really tough for me to get used to the yellow lighting, after having daylight-white for the 1.5 years. But actually, it is less blinding, and the plants did not nosedive as I feared they would.

[capescuba]

Melev,
Awesome idea. I'm off to get one for my new fuge I'm building. Does it have the color/temp (5100K) on the back as I don't see it in the photo?

How much light/gallon do you use on a fuge?

Thanks,
Dave

[melev]

No, it doesn't have it listed. I had to call the company that makes them to find out. However, you can clearly see the SKU on the top of the package, and they only sell this one kind by that company. Home Depot has it for sure.

I have one over a 5g refugium that is on this sump:

http://www.sparklingfloorservice.com/tank/55sump.html

[capescuba]

Perfect - Thank you.

[BlackGrouper]

Marc,
Thanks for sharing. Can you update on how are the lights working for you? I'll be setting my refugium on a divided 30 gallon tank soon. Is one light enough? Thanks

[carlosd321]

hey, will this light be ok if you want to put a few inverts in your fuge and live rock??? thanks. if so would solve some space issues. just looked at your sump. why is the skimmer on a stand? is this to keep from getting build up around it? just wondering if this is something i should think about

[melev]

BlackGrouper, the light is working extremely well, and I'm very happy with it. I've bought another, but I'm thinking I should buy a case of them, to make sure I still have more in case Home Depot decides to stop selling them. :rolleyes:

If you find that one isn't enough for your needs, you could put another one. It really depends on dimensions. My refugium is 10x16x12.

Carlos, what type of inverts are you thinking about? Snails, shrimp, crabs, worms, and pods don't care. I never even turn off the light!

[carlosd321]

yeah that would about cover it mabye an anemone or two. my stuff is on hold right now anyway i just cracked my sump earlier

[melev]

No, I would not consider this nearly enough light for an anemone or any other light-loving creature. It is a 19w bulb that puts out 75w, at 5100K.

It is fine for micro-infauna such as the typical clean up crew, and for macro algae growth. I would put the anemone (not two) in the display tank under the proper amount of lighting it needed, where it can be seen and enjoyed.

[carlosd321]

got it thanks

[magyk74]

How long do you light your refugium/?

[carlosd321]

i was told you have to light 24/7 to keep things from going a-sexual

[magyk74]

24-7 is a bit much I know they wont go asexual

[carlosd321]

hmm gona have to look into that

[redpaulhus]

Originally posted by magyk74
How long do you light your refugium/?

It depends alot on the species of algae you are growing...

For Cheatomorpha I light my tank about 12 hours, reverse-daylight photoperiod from the main tank. I'd do the same for Gracillaria.

For Caulerpa I would certainly go 24/7 to prevent a crash.

[redpaulhus]

(oops, almost forgot)

Melev-

Nice light - I'll have to give it a shot (I use the first one you showed on a number of FW planted tanks)... right now I'm using a LoA 65w Flourex on my fuge, with explosive growth... but I have quite a few tanks that I could add a spotlight to (mostly FW)...
Thanks !

[magyk74]

I just bought that Light from LOA with 65 watts
How long do you keep it on your fuge
and does it get hot the light that is?

by the way it is a flood light correct?

[Ryan]

Originally posted by redpaulhus

For Caulerpa I would certainly go 24/7 to prevent a crash.

It won't help without proper pruning (bi-weekly)
Caulerpa is a headache, you'llbe happier with something else if you can find it.

[melev]

From what I've read here and elsewhere, the LOA fixture needs some vent holes drilled to keep it from overheating in an enclosed area like a stand.

The floodlight I'm using works great. I do keep it on 24/7 because I just didn't bother to put it on a timer. It uses 19w (an hour?) and the plants seem completely unaffected by the continuous light. Matter of fact, I don't know that I want to try turning it off, with the excellent growth I get. I pruned (or fragged) my Cheatomorpha 4 or 5 times in the past month for others, and last night my refugium was a packed brick of Macro algae again!

[bigbeatzz]

great thread! I saw those daylight bulbs in home depot and wondered if they worked. i'm going to build a big fuge on my next tank and i think I'll be using that LoA fixture. looks like a great item at a cheap price.

I joined reef central a few months ago and let me say...THIS IS AWESOME. i'd like to thank everyone for the great advice. I've learned a ton!

[mpdharley]

Marc,

How do you think these lights would compare to VHOs? I'm using two 3 foot URI 10k bulbs (95 watts each). My fuge is approx 110 gallons (4x2x2) with a 7" DSB.

My growth is okay, nothing outstanding and nowhere near doubling in a month. The lights are only on for about 10 hours a day though.

[melev]

If you are using 2x95w lights (what spectrum?) for a total of 190w, you could try to swap them out for 3x19w instead and get 225w of light at 5100K instead!

It'll cost you $33 for the bulbs, and you'll need three sockets which might add up to another $15 (if you use the spring clamp ones I buy) to find out for yourself if it was worth it.

I think it is, because you'll only be consuming 57w an hour with three bulbs. Let us know if you decide to do it, and if you like the results.

[mpdharley]

The VHOs are 10K URIs. I have 3 of the spring clamps already (I had tried a different bulb using those) and switched to the VHOs when I upgraded my main tank lighting (and no longer used the VHOs on it).

Right now I've tried two weeks with Corallife 6500k VHO and am near the end of my first week with the URI 10ks. So far I'm not seeing a lot of difference between the two.

At the end of the two week period with the URIs, I'll probably try the others just to see. When I do, I'll report back here what I found.

[zrograviti]

I just got the same bulb from homedepot, and it looks good. Thanks for your sharing your experience.

[fish @ chips 29]

sweet just what i need a hd fuge lamp at a sweet deal thanks you saved me $$$$$$

[Erick504]

2 weeks with the loa fuge lamp, and i have a fuge full of chaeto.:D , Make sure you put a couple of holes in the ballast area.

[Aaron1100us]

I just got something pretty cool for my fuge. I'm sure alot of you have heard about it. Its the LOA 65w flood light. The bulb is a power compact that runs 65w at 6,500k. They say its the same a 500w but I don't think its close to that, although it is pretty bright. $38 at Home Depot for the whole setup.

[Erick504]

Yeah that thing is bright, it lights up my whole living room at night.:lol2:

[melev]

Many Home Depots do not carry the LOA light unfortunately, including in my area and in Dallas. So the alternative that I've been suggesting in this thread has met with good response.

[Aaron1100us]

Yeah, my HD didn't carry it either. I had to have them special order it. Just seemed like a very good light to use for that purpose:)

[magyk74]

I've had the lights of america flood light for about 5 days now and I can say my Macro's have doubled in size.

[thedogofwar]

I'm gonna have to try this. I have been using a 65W smartlite but I broke it the other day, I don't see how the growth could get any better than the smartlite was getting but if it's the same I'll be extremely happy. Thanx

[Soccer]

Can you just buy one of the normal clip on fixtures at your hardware store and run this bulb? What wattage should the fixture be rated for 75w? Or is there a special fixture needed to run this bulb?

Thanx in advance!

[magyk74]

Does anyone now How much chematophora, leaf caulpra, or grape caulpra reduces the phosphate level within the tank?

[melev]

Originally posted by Soccer
Can you just buy one of the normal clip on fixtures at your hardware store and run this bulb? What wattage should the fixture be rated for 75w? Or is there a special fixture needed to run this bulb?

Thanx in advance!

Yes. What I found to be very reasonable in price is the $5 clamp light w/ reflector kit. It comes with the socket, reflector and cord, mounted on a spring-loaded clamp. Just remove the reflector, and clamp it in place on your plumbing, woodwork, edge of refugium.... Since the bulb only used 19w, you don't have to worry about amperage at all. The reflector set up is quite likely designed to handle 100w bulbs all the time.

[melev]

Originally posted by magyk74
Does anyone now How much chematophora, leaf caulpra, or grape caulpra reduces the phosphate level within the tank?

That is hard to gauge, and I don't know who to point you to. I have a 5g refugium under my 55g display and it is jam-packed with Cheatomorpha. My nitrates are extremely low, and phosphates are never over .03ppm.

[kirstenk]

Hey MArc,

I was at HD today and picked up what I thought was your light but its different. :-( Same company, same package but it says 85watts R40. And 19w = 85watts....nuttin about halogen....? Think this would work?

Kirsten

[zrograviti]

Originally posted by kirstenk
Hey MArc,

I was at HD today and picked up what I thought was your light but its different. :-( Same company, same package but it says 85watts R40. And 19w = 85watts....nuttin about halogen....? Think this would work?

Kirsten

I saw that one, too. I was wondering if that one would be brighter or not, since it didn't say 19W = 85W halogen.

[gwrulzmylife]

thanks! you've saved me some $$$ on my electric bill. I was using a 300w halagen shop light.

[kirstenk]

I went ahead and used it last night. We can consider this a test to see if I get good growth. Will let ya'll know.

Kirsten

[melev]

Kirstenk, is it made by the same company? If so, there is a phone number on the back that you can call.

This is the SKU to the bulb I have: 774-265

You can reach Commercial Electric at 800-378-6998

You'll want to know what Kelvin that bulb is, and once you find out, please share.

[magyk74]

I purchase a flood light from LOA two weeks ago from costco, drilled plenty of holes in the back and guess what the ballast burned out. I was using it about 16 hrs a day.

I just went to HD and bought a 5 dollar reflector however I did go with the bulb that uses 40watts and looks about 150 watt in the energy saving bulbs.
Actually it's a step up from the bulb mentioned in the first thread
I'm guessing I should still have luck with it. Any feedback would be appreciated.

[steve68]

i have been using LOA for over a year with no problem i guess i got a good batch (knock on wood)

[kirstenk]

I called them today and the bulb I picked up is 2700K so not near as good! :-( Must beed to say halogen. Bummer, cuz I went back and my HD didn't have the other one.

Kirsten

[fish @ chips 29]

sweet i found the bulb 10$ and 5$ for light socket
what happen to the pics. on the !st page?

[melev]

There is an InterNic issue, as my site has been 'lost' for the moment. I hope by tomorrow it will be back up. For now, here is the longer link that will work no matter what:

http://www.sparklingfloorservice.com/melevsreef/pics/0104/new_bulb.jpg

[steve68]

cool im going to have to try this bulb out.
thanks mark.

[mpdharley]

Marc,

How hot do these bulbs run? I built a wood "canopy" for my refugium to house the VHOs. I'd like to continue to use it if I switch to these bulbs.

[melev]

I never turn off the light, and I can put my hand on the bulb for at least 30 seconds without having to pull away. I don't touch the ceramic base though, as I'd guess that would be the hottest part.

[magyk74]

Melev the commercial electric bulb that you used (not the flood light) did you get good results. I just purchased the one that is supposed to give off 150 watts and uses 40

How was this light did you have positive results from it? I'm also using a 8 inch reflector.

[melev]

The first bulb I used was 29w and put out 75w of lighting, at 6500K. It ran hotter than the new bulb, and overall worked just fine with my macro algae. Sometimes the bulb would overheat and not quite turn off (it would be a dull glow), and I'd replace it temporarily with another one until it was cool, or just replace it with a new bulb.

I used it for 1.5 years with good success, and for $7 each, I felt I got my monies worth.

I did have to drill some vent holes around the base of the reflector to prevent the ceramic base from overheating.

[magyk74]

so the bulb that I bought using 40 watts putting out 150 should be fine

[slo_knight]

...on a timer. It uses 19w (an hour?)...

Sorry to get all nerdy, but I thougt that I should say something just in case someonce wants to calculate how much it is costing them to run an appliance per month.

For anybody out there watts are units of power, which is voltage x power. Since voltage is fixed (standard wall socket), this indicates how much current (units of amps) the unit pulls.

Electricity bill will show a rate in terms of $$ per kiloWatt_Hours

So, Rate x Wattage x Time = $$$

Please excuse the digression.

[melev]

Thanks Slo_knight. One day I do need to figure out what all my equipment is using so I can figure out my total montly reefing expense is.... but only after a few beers. :p

[mpdharley]

Only one problem with calculating how much the total reefing expense is. If we do that, then we either have to lie to our Signifcant Other or tell them the truth!

Right now I just tell her "I don't think it's all that much" :D

[slo_knight]

Very funny, but excellent point. I feel ya' on that one. Well, at least scrapbooking isn't as expensive (yet) as reefing, otherwise we would be broke!

[qwuintus]

I have 2 18" LOA flourescents I want to use for my 20gallon fuge. I have a 50/50 corallife and a 10,000k corallife bulb on them. Would I be able to grow stuff with them or are they weaksauce?

[reefer20G]

PLEASE, make it stop.

I do not mean to be rude or anything, but qwuintus, please, your avatar is driving me crazy. In the past week I have been reading the threads that you have been posting very quickly, and even making my window scroll, just so I can move it off the screen.

I do not want to get too off topic, but you have put NOTEs in your posts about your avatar giving people migraines. Just change it already.

Please do not hate me, I just do not get it.

[qwuintus]

sorry.. my computer wont let me save as a gif. only bitmap so im waiting to figure out how i can save it before i change it.

[reefer20G]

Try this:

[qwuintus]

@ school right now, but ill pm you in about 30 minutes when im home. - if your still on...

[reefer20G]

I will be here. np.

[melev]

Originally posted by qwuintus
I have 2 18" LOA flourescents I want to use for my 20gallon fuge. I have a 50/50 corallife and a 10,000k corallife bulb on them. Would I be able to grow stuff with them or are they weaksauce?

I'm sure it will be fine. What is the total wattage?

[qwuintus]

15w each

[melev]

So you have 30w of PC lighting that is probably the equivalent of what?

[qwuintus]

they are NO flourescents, and im not sure what they are equal to.

[melev]

Well, then they are equal to 30w which isn't much. You might consider switching to the bulb I'm recommending, because you don't need a reflector, you don't need a shield, and it only uses 19w put puts out 75w. $10 is all it cost.

[qwuintus]

alright thanx, i went the day before and saw the spiral one, the base for the screw on bulbs with a chain link for the switch is about $3 and I have some wiring at home. THanx man.

[mpdharley]

Well, I just replaced my 2 95 watt 10k VHO with the bulbs Marc is recommending.

Prior to the 10k VHOs, I was running 6500k VHOs (Corallife). Between the 10k and 6500k, the 10k definitely gave me better growth. I ran each of the other bulbs for two weeks, so in two weeks I'll be able to let everyone know how these bulbs compare to the others.

For info, my fuge is 48x24x24 with about a 7" DSB. I'm running three of these bulbs for a total output of 225watts.

[melev]

I look forward to your perspective, mpdharley. I really had my doubts, but it has proven to be an excellent light for my setup. My refugium is much smaller, holding 5g with 2" substrate.

My cheatomorpha is densely packed, and is ready to be cut back and shared again. I should probably post a picture in this thread. Tomorrow I'll put one up.

[jjmg]

Just so everyone knows, the company is saying the 19w of flourescent is putting out equal to 75w of incandascent ( a normal light bulb) which is not equal to a 75w flourescent bulb.

So mpdharley, I believe you just went from 190 watts of flourescent to 57 watts of flourescent. You really have to talk apples to apples.

For example, who believes that two 96w PC will put out as much light as a 175w halide?

But I do see them as very good lights for a fuge, I was just reading it that some people didn't realize that different types of bulbs put out different amounts of light.

[ONAGI]

will give this a try on the fuge as well.

[mpdharley]

jjmg - That's a good point, thanks for clarifying that. I decided to give the bulb a try since Marc was having such good luck with it. I already had the sockets with the heavy duty clamps so I only had to purchase the 3 bulbs. It would be nice if I get good growth out of it -- I'd much rather spend the money to run 57 watts of light instead of 190!

Anyway, I'll keep everyone updated with how well my Chaet grows over the next two weeks.

[jjmg]

Originally posted by mpdharley
jjmg - That's a good point, thanks for clarifying that. I decided to give the bulb a try since Marc was having such good luck with it. I already had the sockets with the heavy duty clamps so I only had to purchase the 3 bulbs. It would be nice if I get good growth out of it -- I'd much rather spend the money to run 57 watts of light instead of 190!

Anyway, I'll keep everyone updated with how well my Chaet grows over the next two weeks.

I hope it works for you. Have you looked at the daylight flourescents that HD sells for around $6? The VHO ballast will overdrive them to nearly VHO output at @ 6500K. They won't last as long as a real VHO but for 6 bucks you can change them every 5 months! Not a savings in electric, but still a savings and macro like the 6500K better anyway.

[mpdharley]

No, I haven't tried those. But, I got better growth out of the 10k than the Corallife 6500k (VHO). It may be because the 10k's were URIs and had the internal reflector. Although I have reflectors on my the hood I built for the fuge (a couple of old paraboloics), the URIs seemed to put a lot more light in the fuge.

[Red_Roadster]

Anyone considered this one?

http://www.lightsofamerica.com/floods.htm

Has a CRI of 6500, a plastic cover, reflective backing, doesn't put off much heat,and would sit flush on top of any cut out made for a fuge.

I have one in my yard that I am thinking about taking down and using.

Red

[melev]

Originally posted by Red_Roadster
Anyone considered this one?

http://www.lightsofamerica.com/floods.htm

Has a CRI of 6500, a plastic cover, reflective backing, doesn't put off much heat,and would sit flush on top of any cut out made for a fuge.

I have one in my yard that I am thinking about taking down and using.

Red

Red, many people do use these, because they are able to get them in their area. The Home Depots around here don't sell them anymore, and shipping from a vendor adds to the cost.

If you do want to use the one you've got, as others have posted here on RC, you'll need to drill holes in the housing to allow heat to escape so it won't overheat and turn off/fail.

[schoy]

hi all
does anybody know if they do mail order as i`m in the uk would like to try these but cant find here
thanks schoy

[AcroSteve]

I could not find any on ebay.

[melev]

Originally posted by schoy
hi all
does anybody know if they do mail order as i`m in the uk would like to try these but cant find here
thanks schoy

Wouldn't your power source be different than the U.S.? I know Europe is 220v. Isn't England?

We run at 110v in the U.S.

[kenreef]

save

[ONAGI]

there were a lot on e-bay over the weekend. $35 or 39 plus shipping I think. It's under fish in the lighting category.

[melev]

But the one I'm suggesting is only $10.

http://www.melevsreef.com/pics/0104/new_bulb.jpg

[ONAGI]

Sold! That's a much better deal. Especially when it achieves the same goal.

[TAMU Reef]

I saw this bulb in Home Depot over the weekend, good suggestion on using it. By the way, Lowes does NOT have a bulb that is even close to this one so don't waste your time there. You have just got me started back on my refugium project.

Thanks melev!
TAMU Reef

[melev]

You're welcome. :D

[melev]

Here are two pictures of the bulb over my refugium. As you know, taking a picture of something bright makes the rest of the picture darker.

http://www.melevsreef.com/pics/0404/newbulb_over_fuge1.jpg

So here I focused on the midpoint of the refugium to give you a better impression of the actual appearance.

http://www.melevsreef.com/pics/0404/newbulb_over_fuge.jpg

This bulb is not hot to the touch, and is sealed so it can be wiped off easily.

[melev]

Btw, my Mangroves are getting some of this light also, 24/7 and are doing nicely.

[reefer20G]

Marc, that looks awesome. I cannot wait to get mine up and running.

How do you have those mangroves squeezed back there?

Nice to be back on track.

[melev]

The Mangroves were actually tall enough to have them in the display, but in a 55g as full as mine, there simply wasn't room for that monster root ball. so I put them in the refugium. They are growing behind the tank, which is 4" from the wall. They get light from the canopy above, and the refugium light adds some as well. Plus daylight from the side because they face the patio doors. Here's a picture I took of the mangroves about 6 weeks ago.

http://melevsreef.com/id/mangroves_012604.jpg

[reefer20G]

Wow, that's great. Nice use of space. I saw that image on your ID page a while back, but just put the space together with the other image of your sump. Really nice.

How many mangroves do you have? How long have you had them?

[melev]

Here are a few more pictures of the mangroves, as of <b>today!</b> :D

The first image is comparable to the original shot some time back. I'll check on the date.

http://www.melevsreef.com/pics/0404/mangroves_041304.jpg

Here's a new leaf about to sprout. Thanks for having me look so closely! The browning of leaves is normal and it happens very slowly over time. Eventually they drop off as new growth occurs. I know it isn't very pretty for this shot, but it is nature and not art.

http://www.melevsreef.com/pics/0404/mangroves2.jpg

And this is the other stem. Look very closely and you can see a tiny needle-like upright stem that will eventually fill in or become a leaf.

http://www.melevsreef.com/pics/0404/mangroves3.jpg

According to my logs, I got the two plants on Jan 26, 2004.

[reefer20G]

Very cool. It looks like more than two in the first pic without looking really close. How big/or how many leaves did they have when you got them.

They look really nice by the way.

[melev]

Oh, I don't know. Maybe 5 or 6 leaves each, standing about 16 to 18" tall. It doesn't look like I've increased the leaves at all. They seem to just replace the ones that die.

This new growth gives me another reason to be happy with this bulb, since they do get 5100K light all the time. For those reading along, I just want to remind you that this light will appear quite yellowish, compared to a daylight bulb. After I got used to it, I actually prefer it to the previous bulb I used.

[reefer20G]

Yeah, thanks for the info Marc. Sorry to get off topic, but in a different way. :)

[netgunz]

I just picked up the LOA flourex lamp and fixture model 9027 at HD. This is the 27 watt version that puts out 150W incandescent equivalent. It is also 6500k color temp which is ideal for macro. It was about $25 for the setup. Will keep you posted on results of using this bulb to grow Chaeto in a fuge environment.
http://www.lightsofamerica.com/floods.htm

[slanky]

Melev, thanks for the suggestion. I was just in the process of setting up my fuge for growing chaetomorpha when I saw this thread.

I wound up buying the 85w=19 version as Home Depot didn't have the 75w one you show in the pictures.

Anyway, I got the fuge set up a few weeks ago. I bought a cheapo $7 light fixture to hold the bulb and late last week I got a very small ball of chaetomorpha off Ebay. As of this morning, that tiny ball of chaeto has grown to the size of a watermelon almost and is still growing like a weed! :eek: The growth is amazing. I'm already thinking I'm going to have to trim back the chaeto in another week or so. Oh well, guess I can re-sell all my macro on Ebay or in the selling forum :D

Thanks for the bulb suggestion! It runs very cool and produces outstanding growth (at least in my chaeto)

[jrausch]

FWIW, here's another link about people having success growing macro with different type bulbs.

http://archive.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=216369&highlight=par+30

Marc-
Is the bulb you're using a type of PC bulb or is it incandescent?

[melev]

It is a PC bulb. The ceramic base is visible under the glass reflector section.

[jrausch]

Cool thanks. Just got back from HD(gotta love that place) and saw the bulb there. I've never seen them there before. Are they new? Maybe I just missed them before. Just under $10.

[melev]

jrausch, they are relatively new. I found them in early January.

[Dag]

Melev, where did you get your mangroves from?

[BlackGrouper]

I just bought this bulb at my local costco. 3 pack for $14.99

Would this work?

Specs are:
Model BPCE23PAR38/3
23 Watts (120V Replacements)
1300 Lumens
6000 Hours Avg Life

http://www.feit.com/par38.html

[melev]

Dag, a club member was selling them.

BlackGrouper, I've got no idea. Contact that vendor and ask them what "Kelvin" spectrum they are. More importantly, let us know how they work out for you!

[maffs]

Mark et al,

thanks for a very helpful discussion. Like a previous poster, I'm from the UK. The nearest equivalent I can find is a 18W PAR38 claiming to be 100W output. The problem is the Kelvin is 2700. Is that too low for caulerpa?

Thanks,

Matthew.

[melev]

I guess you'll have to tell us. That sounds very yellow to me.

[headshrink]

Marc, I just got back from HD and it looks like I brought one home that is a little different.... It looks ALMOST exactly alike but it is 19W=85W. Also the top of the light is frosted.sku = 773-239
Think it is basically the same?

[melev]

Originally posted by headshrink
Marc, I just got back from HD and it looks like I brought one home that is a little different.... It looks ALMOST exactly alike but it is 19W=85W. Also the top of the light is frosted.sku = 773-239
Think it is basically the same?

It is hard to say. However, in this month's club newsletter, I went ahead and wrote an article about it, and included the SKU numbers. Here's the link to that article (at the base of the newsletter). Btw,the lens on my light is not frosted, but it looks like a typical floodlight bulb - it has a little texture to it on the inside to probably create stronger intensity?

http://www.dfwmas.com/newsletters_html_format/2004Apr/DFWMAS_apr04.html

Btw, this thread and the current interest from y'all is what gave me the idea to do a product review for our club. THANKS!

[headshrink]

I just called the company... Grrrrr.... Aparently he says they don't have a 5100K in HD CA. Mine is a 2700K. He did tell me how to get it though. It is sold under a different manufactorers name (Home Depot Supply - 1800-431-3003). It is called the TCP Flood Light - 51K IR4019 (they also have a 65K). Unfortunatly I already opened mine.... I don't know if I can take it back. I hope this helps someone.

[headshrink]

https://secure.tcinternet.net/buylighting/shoppingcart/cflfloods.html

[melev]

So try yours out and see what it does. Or take it back to Home Depot and tell them you hate the color. They won't complain as long as you have the receipt.

The ones on that website cost more, but they are the same. I noticed they call 5100K "daylight"...wierd.

[Snausages01]

Well after reading this thread last night I decided I was either going to get the two flood lights that melev was using or the one flood light by LOA. I looked around at home depot for a while and just decided to try the LOA light because it was the easiest to mount in my situation and had the cheapest replacement blubs. I thought about getting some NO tubes too, but again the LOA light was the cheapeast in the long run (if it works). I had some macro in there for about a week under 18w PG 6700K and it didn't seem to grow much at all...Well now I have that and the mangroves under the 65w LOA (6500K) and the kinda under the 18 PC, and will see how it does. I'll keep you all informed.

Attached is a picture of the sump/refugium.

http://www.reeflounge.com/forum/download.php?id=5897

http://www.reeflounge.com/forum/download.php?id=5898

[headshrink]

I returned the bulb and found one that looks like Marc's - but it comes in a double pack ($15). It has a different SKU and I called the company on my cell, but they where closed. I will try it ouver the weekend and if I find out they are the wrong color I will return it.

[mpdharley]

Just wanted to give everyone an update on how the bulbs are working for me. For a recap, I ran the following bulbs for two weeks each. Some other info first. The VHO bulbs were in a DIY wood canopy with parabolic reflectors covering about 80% of the length (100% of the width) of canopy. My fuge is 4'x2'x2' and the VHO bulbs were 3' 95 watt bulbs and I had two of them installed at any given time. The photo period for each set of the bulbs was the same - 10 hours:

- Coralife 6500K: The growth was okay, but I was hoping for more. Even with the reflectors in the canopy, it seemed that a lot of light was lost.

- URI 10,000K: Better growth than the Coralife bulbs. Don't know if this was because of the internal reflector in the bulbs getting more light into the tank or because it was a 10,000K

- PC Bulbs recommended by Marc: Note that I am running three of these bulbs to get the same coverage as the VHOs. After only one week, the growth is as good as the URIs, if not better. Plus, I'm burning a lot less electricity (57 watts instead of 190 and cheaper to replace!). So, for me, these bulbs are what I'm going to stick with. And, with the money I save on the electricity, I can up the photo period!

Well, that's it, it's not scientific, but it's what I saw on my fuge.

Marc -- Thanks for the tip on the bulbs!

[melev]

mpdharley, that is awesome news! I was a little nervous you were going to prove my estimation inaccurate.

I'm still running a 6500K spiral compact over my other refugium, and growth is very slow. I just haven't had the desire to drain and remove the refugium/sump just so I can access the hole in the woodwork above it. I have the metal reflector screwed into the wood, and the only way to get it out is to get the 'fuge out of my way.

I better make some time to deal with that project, after reading your results. I'd like to get phenomenal growth so the nitrates in my 29g will drop finally. (They were 0 in my 55g last week, and I ran the test twice!)

[Cappy]

Nice thread keep it up. I to have the spiral with the reflector, and suffer from space I gotta try it out thanx

[fish @ chips 29]

I have the Home Depot bulb from the 1st post, All i have to say is my cheto has gone from one sandwich bag to 2 sandwich bags seens i put it in. It's been in there for like 10 days. And also looks more green than when i first put it in. Sweet can't wait untill i have to prun it lol.
Thx. *****Melve*****

joe... :)

[melev]

That is great, Joe. :thumbsup:

[Kutter]

Similar to fash@chips29, I also put in the Home Depot bulb last week. I had been using a 18watt JBJ clamp-on power compact prior to this. I too noticed the change to a brighter green color of the chaeto and it is definitely growing.

It hasn't double in size in 3 days or anything like that, about the initial response to the light seems to be very good.

[husker267]

How is everybody setting up the electrical to run these? Since it's a screw bulb, could I just use a lamp-type base that is rated for the correct wattage to avoid having to do a bunch of hand wiring - which I'm not good at?

[reefer20G]

Marc, I just got a softball size chunck of chaeto on sat and added your lightbulb on sunday with a clamp on style fixture (that is what I had for the moment). Things are looking good so far, I will let you know how it grows for me.
Thanks again for the suggestion.

[mpdharley]

Originally posted by husker267
How is everybody setting up the electrical to run these? Since it's a screw bulb, could I just use a lamp-type base that is rated for the correct wattage to avoid having to do a bunch of hand wiring - which I'm not good at?

I'm using the clamp-on light holders from HD. I then have those going to a 3 to 1 outside rated extension cord. The extension cord then plugs into my timer.

Originally posted by melev
mpdharley, that is awesome news! I was a little nervous you were going to prove my estimation inaccurate.

I wasn't nervous at all. I have never had "explosive growth" from any of the chaet that I have had in my fuge. This last batch is the first time I was able to at least get a little growth. With the new lights, I get the best growth I've ever had for less electricity!

Now I just need to work on keepin the caulerpa pruned back so that it doesn't out compete the chaet.

[jdbgmo]

Hi everyone, my name is Jerry and I have been studying the threads on your site for the last couple of days. I wish I had found it sooner, this is a great site. I am prolly going to buy 4 of these lights to use over my main tank. I dont have a fuge or sump, nor do I have the $ to buy lighting at the LFS. I have gutted my 5' plastic light fixture and installed 4 screw in CF lights I got at walmart. They are very bright, but yellow (2700K) Thanks for turning me on to these 5100K lights, I hope my local Home Depot has them.

[mpdharley]

Are you setting your tank up as a reef or a fish only tank? If you are setting it up as a reef tank and depending on what corals you plan to have in it, these lights will not be sufficient.

In my fuge, I do have a colt coral that was on a rock in my main tank. I wanted to get the rock out of the main tank so I put it in my fuge. The colt coral seems to be doing okay, but I am not planning on keeping it in there long term. The lights definitely wouldn't be good for SPS, Clams or many other corals.

[jrausch]

jdbgmo, welcome to Reef Central.

You might want to try different lights for your main tank. If you're going to HD anyway, they do(at least mine does) have another light that's a 19 watt 6500k PC bulb made by Commercial Electric. I think it was mentioned in this thread already. It's in a blue package and says "6500k" on the back of the package. It won't be as yellow as the 5100k bulb. Do you have macro algea in your main tank?

As mentioned already, depending on what you have in the tank the 5100k(or even the 6500k) may not be sufficient. Not sure how much you can spend on lights, but you don't have to spend hundreds and hundreds of dollars on lighting to get decent lights. There's a company called Jebo that does business on Ebay who's lights are cheap compared to similar setups elsewhere(I've never used them and from what I understand they are pretty cheaply made, but you get a lot of light for the money). Here's a review of one of their lights.

http://reefcentral.com/modules.php?s=&name=Reviews&rop=showcontent&id=43

Otherwise Coralife's Aqualights are also pretty decently priced. If you're into DIY, you can buy a retrofit setup and save some money that way. One site I've done business with is www.ahsupply.com but there are many others. One big hint to save money is to buy lights(and most other stuff for that matter) online. You will save a lot of money.

If you want more sites on where to buy lights, PM me or look at the sponsors page on this website. Or check out Ebay or the selling forum here at RC. HTH

[fish @ chips 29]

I had to do this to campare heres a pic of day one with HD flood light bulb and micro.

[fish @ chips 29]

heres 8 to 10 days later you juge

[fish @ chips 29]

The first pice is a sandwich bag worth of chetto. Lights on only 1/2 of the day. I wil post more in 10 days. If i dont Forget.

[jdbgmo]

Thanks for the links, I will check them out. I want a reef tank, with some fish too. That is why I have the 150lb of rock in there. Its is semi-cured. I dont know what macro is. I have already wasted about $150 on lighting that is not good enough. I am about to start work on a DIY wood canopy to go over my glass canopy. Then I will be ready for some more lights. I was looking at the 6500K lights at HD. I was thinking maybe 6 of them. I am not sure what kinds of things I want to grow right now, so I will get back to doing some more research. There is so much to learn and so little time. I have been keeping FW fish for a 2 yrs, but am brand new to SW. Anyone know what kind of starfish this is?
http://www.hpphotos.com/servlet/LinkPhoto?GUID=2e316ca2-4bfc-1002-39f7-607b67047306&size=lg

[melev]

Originally posted by jdbgmo
Thanks for the links, I will check them out. I want a reef tank, with some fish too. That is why I have the 150lb of rock in there. Its is semi-cured. I dont know what macro is. I have already wasted about $150 on lighting that is not good enough. I am about to start work on a DIY wood canopy to go over my glass canopy. Then I will be ready for some more lights. I was looking at the 6500K lights at HD. I was thinking maybe 6 of them. I am not sure what kinds of things I want to grow right now, so I will get back to doing some more research. There is so much to learn and so little time. I have been keeping FW fish for a 2 yrs, but am brand new to SW. Anyone know what kind of starfish this is?
http://www.hpphotos.com/servlet/LinkPhoto?GUID=2e316ca2-4bfc-1002-39f7-607b67047306&size=lg

Would you be so kind as to start a new thread with your questions? I know many people will be interested to help, but you'll get more readers with your own thread rather than in one dedicated to lighting for a refugium.

I sincerely doubt you'll be able to use the bulbs discussed in this thread for a reef tank. If it was possible, we'd all be doing it. The 6500K bulbs work over a refugium, but don't have near the PAR (intensity) required to penetrate deeply into your tank. You'll want to look into PC or VHO lighting. PCs can be purchased with bulbs for about $199 at Hellolights.com (220w worth).

[ratimpulse]

Im new to fish keeeping, I was wondering what would i mount this on??

[headshrink]

I never did get around to calling the co. during business hours to check the color of my light from the double pack.... but for the first time ever, my macro is GROWING!

[melev]

Originally posted by ratimpulse
Im new to fish keeeping, I was wondering what would i mount this on??

If you go to the electrical section at Home Depot, you'll find a spot where they sell timers and extension cords. That is the location where you'll find a clamp-light fixture. What is it is a metal reflector (about 4.5" wide), screwed onto the plastic socket a lightbulb screws in. Attached to that is the power cord and a spring clamp so you can attach it to most anything. The edge of your sump, a spot on your stand, or even on a piece of PVC from your plumbing. The spring clamp costs $5, and is ready to use. In this senario, you won't need the reflector because the $10 bulb I'm recommending doesn't need it. It has its own internal reflector, so there is no heat buildup. $15 is all you'll need to set up this light over your macro algae.

Bob, that's great news about finally seeing some growth!

[Abynum1]

They have one at Wal-mart that has a flexible extension between the clamp and the socket so that you cand bend it any way you need to.It was 12.00 I think.

[TAMU Reef]

I recently purchased one of your bulbs melev at Home Depot and I am about to hook it up.

Thanks again for the info.

TAMU Reef

[akacable]

Got one too :) Thanks for sharing.

[gotfrogs]

http://www.gotfrogs.com/images/20gal/20gal%204-25-01%201_small.JPG

I got me one! (http://www.gotfrogs.com/20.htm)

[melev]

gotfrongs, does that system actually work? I'm looking at how you suck the water out of the left side of the sump...

[gotfrogs]

http://www.gotfrogs.com/images/20gal/DSCN2139_small.JPG

I just set it up today but yeah, it works! I put some more info on my webpage. (http://www.gotfrogs.com/20.htm)

[Snausages01]

A little update on the LOA fixture:

I have had it running for a week or two now with a 9 hour photo period (same timer as the tank). Well, my mangroves were looking a little starved for light (leaves were showing a little light green...could just be from being new leaved though, but they were also fairly soft). I just upped the photo period from 9 to 14 hours two days ago, and I'll let you all know what the results are in a few days.

[fins369]

Got frogs didn't know if you knew about the local club. www.marshreef.com I got this bulb 2 days ago and it's great. I've noticed some strands on my chaeto. starting to perk up, hopefully even more so in a few weeks. Thanks Melev. BTW, isn't Global a great place!

[melev]

Yes! I get a ton of help from others and try to return the favor.

[Bryan]

Anybody know if this bulb is available at Home Depot's in Canada

[Kutter]

I bought the bulb at Home Depot in London, Ontario so I'd imagine its available in most Home Depot's in Canada.

[ddawson]

I wanted to add that I removed my 13W Jalli and replaced it with the PAR38 bulb. I ran the Jalli for about 2 months.

The growth under the Jalli was OK but three days under the PAR38 the cheto just took off.

Thanks for posting your results.

[gold]

thats so cool. i almost bought the LOA one otday for like 35 total. GLAD i didnt. can you use a regular light socket/ fixture with this bulb or does it need special ballast stuff?

[melev]

It uses a regular socket, as the ballast is built into the bulb itself.

[marino420td]

tagging along

[melev]

There isn't much to "tag" on this thread. The information has been posted, and you just need to give it a try on your own system. :D

[marino420td]

I know. I just set up my first refuge, got the bulb on it and I am expecting my first clump of Chaeto in the next day or so. I'm just wanting to get everyone's feedback if they post it.

[reefer20G]

Ok, I got a nice chunk of chaeto from a local reefer. I got the bulb Marc recommended.

I have had the cheaeto for just two weeks. The amount of growth is not huge, but it is a much tighter ball, and a deeper darker green. I say it is about 1.5 times as big.

I think this light is great. Thanks Marc.

Jason

[melev]

After a while, try to pull the cheatomorpha apart slightly. It will encourage growth.

[reefer20G]

Cool, thanks for the tip Marc.

[beaker6672]

I called up to company to check on the 65 Watt version...sku=773972...and it is 2700k. I also ran the other 75 watt bulb that marc was recommending...the 774265...and they said it was also 2700k. Hmmm....any insight on whats going on...perhaps were all using 2700k.

[melev]

Well, I only called once, and I was told it was 5100K. I never thought I would need to call back to ask the same question again.

[Snausages01]

My LOA wet out about a week ago, but had it replaced so its up and running again. The chaeto doesn't seem to be taking off, but the grape macro seems to be doing pretty good. The feather isn't doing as well either, but that was the furthest thing away from the lights. The razor seems to be doing pretty well too. All, of the mangroves are doing great except the one that was by the feather which was furthest away from the light. So I think I am going to get one of the bulb and stick it on my refugium too and see how it works out with the LOA.

[beaker6672]

I think that the tech support people probably had some confusion. I really dont know the color rating but hey...as long as it works. I went out and bought one of marc's bulbs. Hope my chaeto perks up.

[India]

I've been using a $40. LOA fixture - the old recommended pc one, and my macro growth is not what I'd hoped...I think I'll give your bulb a try - any special type of clamp base? You don't worry about exterior quality/OK for dampness?
Thanks,
India

[melev]

The bulb is rated for indoor/outdoor use and can be used in wet environments, according to the packaging. I really need to take a picture of a new clamping bracket, so you'll know what to look for.

[steve68]

ok so after reading this thread i figure hey what the heck let me give this bulb a try so i bought it & it's on the other side of my sump the diference to me looks like the LOA cover more square per inch it looks alot brighter, but we all know that does not mean much if it does not make the macro grow so im going to give it a couple of weeks & see how it does i wiil be taking the LOA out & using the halogen on the macro side & will repost in a couple of weeks i have no dought that it will work im going to keep it on 24/7

http://www.njreefers.org/gallery/albums/userpics/10078/DSC03891.jpg

[steve68]

well here it is i had 2 shut the skimmer off so u could see how
much macro i had.
does this bulb need to break in it looks brighter now :)
or maybee its just all the white PVC pipe.

http://www.njreefers.org/gallery/albums/userpics/10078/DSC03898.jpg

[melev]

The LOA light fixture produces more light, compared to this bulb. I believe the LOA output value is around 250w to 300w, right?

This one only produces 75w. In a larger application, it could take 2 - 4 bulbs to proivide adequate coverage. For my needs the single bulb has done nicely.

[steve68]

u know i have no idea on the LOA i have had this one for about a year.
i'll repost a pick in a couple of weeks marc :)

[poon415]

Bought the CE Par 38 and got a small clump of Chaeto from Slo-Knight. Jumping on board and will update for those interested. Refugium is only 10 gallons. Using metal clamp light fixture that cost $5 , bulb was $ 10 at Home Depot in Huntington Beach, Springdale and Warner.

[DragonGoby]

Regarding these $10 Home Depot light bulbs, does anyone know if they will work if connected to a 240V outlet?

[headshrink]

I was in HD the other day and they finally had EXACTLY the bulb Marc posted. I compaired it to the one I got in 2-pack with a lighter packaging. Of course the SKU#s were different since the packaging was different, but I did notice that the model # at the base of the light is identicle. :)
That would explain the growth...

[Bryan]

I just purchased one of the HD floodlight. I find it quite yellow.

I really doubt it's 5100K, but then again if it causes the macro algae to grow who cares.

[melev]

Yes, it is quite yellow compared to a 6500K bulb.

[beaker6672]

Well, after about 4-5 days of using the light, my chaeto is noticably greener and has grown already. I will keep going with the light. My chaeto is doing well with this bulb.

[Fonchy]

Sorry for the stupid question, after reading all these posts I am very confused, can some one just tell me which bulb are we talking about. is it the SKU: 774-265 or is it something else. Im saying this because I have a fuge that it has been pruned once in 7 months.

Please help

PS: I have read this post 2 times already

Thnaks

[steve68]

is it the SKU: 774-265 or is it something else

thats the one:)
same one i bought at HD

[melev]

Reposting the link to the article, for the ease of the new readers:

http://www.melevsreef.com/fuge_bulb.html

[blanx]

tag

[poon415]

A week or so of use and a golf ball size chunk of chaeto grew to about two golf balls. Pretty good initial results.

[Joboo]

I am in the process of setting up a 90g with 75g sump and refuge. I have purchased the bulb in this thread to use on my refuge. Before I actually use these bulbs on my refuge I would like to use them to cure LR? Do you think this bulb is adequate? I was even thinking of not using any light but thought I would use some sort of light for a couple hours a day. Any thoughts?

[melev]

Typically you don't need to light curing live rock. It may help keep the coralline algae looking purpler ;), but it isn't a requirement.

[Joboo]

Thanks for the response Melev. I am trying to preserve the coralline algea. I've heard actinic lighting is good for curing rocks but don't want to go purchase more lighting just to cure LR. Do you think this bulb will make a difference?

Thanks

John

[Roshni]

Thanks melev for the information!!! I just switched to this bulb and in one week my cheato has tripled in size!! I have a 20L fuge and I'm excited to actually see some results. You cant beat the price or the results from this bulb, its awesome!!
Thanks

[melev]

Joboo, it can't hurt, but more than that I can't say. Please feel free to test it out and let us know of the results.

Roshni, I'm glad it helped. I've been telling everyone how much I love this bulb! :D

[beaker6672]

update....major growth of chaetomorpha is occuring with this bulb! red nusaince turf algae that was choking off my chaetomorpha is dissappearing. chaetomorpha is taking over. This bulb is great!

[melev]

I should probably put this thread as a link on my bulb review page, so others can see it isn't just my opinion. :)

[cheeto]

Just put one of these over my fuge, was using a 15W NO daylight powerglow bulb. Will post results after a week.

[cheeto]

Here is my Macro today
http://you.dontknow.us/tank/Macro/5-19-04.JPG

[poon415]

Update number two..chaeto is growing fast. Started with a golf ball size chunk. Now it is large enough to fill 2 sandwich bags full. This light bulb works beyond my expectations. Running it 24 hrs a day with slow flow, gravity overflow.

[melev]

I finally swapped out the 6500K bulb over my Model A sump (under my 29g reef) with the 5100K bulb, and I'm sure in no time it'll be packed like my other refugium.

[TAMU Reef]

How long of a schedule do you guys suggest using this bulb to grow chaeto? Right now I have it on a 12 hours schedule opposite of my main tank lights. The chaeto seems to be doing fine on this schedule right now.

[Fonchy]

i got my fuge lights running 24/7

[Carl_in_Florida]

If anyone cares...
I use two of these bulbs on my nano along with a bookworm with an actinic. I think the color is great ane it was the cheapest route by far!

Carl

[melev]

24/7 for mine.

[greenb]

Well,,, I just came across this thread this morning and ran out and bought 2 bulbs at lunch.... I'll let you know how it works for me... Not that you need anymore feedback.... :)

Thanks for the info..
Bob

[beaker6672]

Chaeto must like yellowish light better than whiter light. ITs growing very quickly now.

[greenswmr]

Excellent!

[steve68]

grape calerpa is also growing thick
:beer:

[Cannonball888]

http://www.melevsreef.com/pics/0104/new_bulb.jpg

^I've looked at this floodlight bulb at HD and it is the same exact bulb as this:

http://www.melevsreef.com/pics/6500Kspiralbulb.jpg

The floodlight is the same bulb with a built-in reflector which increases lumens by directing what would have been wasted light. Your increase in algae growth comes from this. You could have used the non-flood bulb and made your own reflector. I use reflectors on everything. I use mylar reflective film which I got from a hydroponics store lining the entire inside of my main tank's canopy. I also have it on the 5 sides of my 20gal refugium. It's relatively cheap and works wonders.

[Purple Haze]

Good find. I'll be using it on my refugium.

Where are you guys getting the mangroves?

Thanks

[melev]

Originally posted by Cannonball888
http://www.melevsreef.com/pics/0104/new_bulb.jpg

^I've looked at this floodlight bulb at HD and it is the same exact bulb as this:

http://www.melevsreef.com/pics/6500Kspiralbulb.jpg

The floodlight is the same bulb with a built-in reflector which increases lumens by directing what would have been wasted light. Your increase in algae growth comes from this. You could have used the non-flood bulb and made your own reflector. I use reflectors on everything. I use mylar reflective film which I got from a hydroponics store lining the entire inside of my main tank's canopy. I also have it on the 5 sides of my 20gal refugium. It's relatively cheap and works wonders.

That is not true, according to the company that makes them, plus it is EXTREMELY obvious to the eye the spectrum is different.

However, I used the second bulb for 1.5 years with decent growth. It is 6500K and is whiter. The floodlight doesn't need a reflector and does not overheat like the 6500K spiral bulb. Plus it is far more yellow and even dim.

This really is not up for debate, because I've used them both and know for a fact. Not trying to pick a fight AND I don't want people to be confused.

The pictures you posted are from the very first post of this thread, after all. Where I stated this in the first place.

I bought my mangroves from a local hobbyist that offered them to our club members.

[Vincerama2]

Mangroves are cheap on eBay. I bought a batch of 10 for like 10 bucks + 7 shipping from Hawaii. The guy offered to add more at a buck a piece. I then bought more from someone else on eBay for 5 bucks for 10 or something (also 7 bucks fo shipping) from Florida.

bottom line : eBay! (both good shipping packaging too) Do NOT buy them for 10 bucks a piece at the LFS!

I had also heard that some places like Target or Walmart or something sold them in pots! (Not sure though).

Oh, and to stay on topic, I switched from some random bulb to the one in this thread and the mangroves seem to be doing quite well under them! Plus the cheato is growing great. I'm also running a small 15W 50/50 flourescent..but I don't think it adds much.

THanks for the tip Marc!

V

[Cannonball888]

Originally posted by melev
That is not true, according to the company that makes them, plus it is EXTREMELY obvious to the eye the spectrum is different.

However, I used the second bulb for 1.5 years with decent growth. It is 6500K and is whiter. The floodlight doesn't need a reflector and does not overheat like the 6500K spiral bulb. Plus it is far more yellow and even dim.

This really is not up for debate, because I've used them both and know for a fact. Not trying to pick a fight AND I don't want people to be confused.

I never used the two bulbs before, so I'll assume what you say is true. To me the two bulbs just looked the same at the store.

Nevermind. :D

[alanseah]

back at my place we dont have Home Depot...
but we do have Home Fix... I try looking for it yesterday but I cant find anything that look like it...
so sad...
tonite I will be going to town and search again hope I can find something similiar..

[cheeto]

I have pruned my calupra twice sicne installing this light. I also weeded out all the chaeto and put it in a small golf sized ball, its now about the size of a softball.

[Cannonball888]

That's what you say, Chaeto.

I mean Cheeto. :D

[gold]

i am using the exact bulb you described actuallt (2) of them and my chaeto is almost exactly the same size as when i got it 2-3 weeks ago... I put it under my metal halides the other day and i can now see gas bubbles forming on it but not much growth the "hairs" of chaeto are now a little more scraggly and less bunched thats the only difference? I guess well see how the halides do because even two of these bulbs werent enough...

[codling]

Marc, what do you think of this lamp? Puts out 2900 lumens at 5100K with a 40W input. Double the price of course.

http://www.bulbs.com/products/product_detail.asp?page=home&inventory=11809

[melev]

Gold, I don't know what to say. Perhaps your experience is different because of the depth of your refugium? How far is the macro from the lighting, and what are your water parameters? It sounds like you have something else going on.

Codling, I looked it over, but I couldn't say if it is better or equal-as. I used to run a spiral power compact before the new one. I like the flood light bulb because of the internal reflector and the ease of cleaning it off. It is much harder to clean salt-creep of the spiral bulb, but still possible.

[poon415]

Update three, refugium is filled with Chaeto and had to prune back. Bulb is kept 4-5 inches off of water in refugium. Refugium is only 10"wide x 14" long.

[poon415]

Anybody keep Mangroves with this lightbulb? Any other macro then Chaeto?

[Vincerama2]

Yep, I do (grom mangroves). Most of them seem to do alright.

The only light they get is from this bulb and they are doing good. Would be better if the sump was more spacious...but that's a different story!

V

[melev]

I'm still growing two mangrove plants with the current bulb. They are doing nicely, and one even sprouted a new branch in the past 6 weeks.

[staticfishmonger]

thaks as a result of this post i ended up with a very intense refugium light, maybe a little intense i get a fair amount od diatome growth within the macro and if there are any leaves close to the surface they get fried. this the first time i have kept macro so im not sure how fast it is suposed to grow, but mine does seem to be expanding in the refuge a little. i think the diatomes are slowing it up a bit, i willl be removing as much of them as i can..... thanks again for the cool lighting idea, here is a pic of the sucker in action.

http://img29.photobucket.com/albums/v86/staticfishmonger/refugium_lighting.jpg

[codling]

Thanks Marc, I sprung for the $10 option at Home Depot and installed it last night. I'll keep you guys updated. I've used T5's for a while in the refugium with minimal growth (only 30W total at 6500k), so hopefully this will kick start things.

[gold]

melev, i dont know if its me or does his bulb look like it has chrome on the outside of the reflector? mine is just whitish like yours??? My fuge is not deep at all and i have the lights right above the water i am trying to keep some mmangroves in there too but they are getting kind of dark...

[Cannonball888]

By the pic on page one, Melev's bulb seems to be chrome on the outside. Mine is as well (I finally bought one too :D ) Are you sure you got the right one :confused:

[staticfishmonger]

yeah i tool the pic with me to home depot and matched the packages, and yes there is chrome on the outside.

[Vincerama2]

Mine has chrome-like outside.

Mangrove advice: Try spraying the mangroves with fresh water, the salt tends to crust on them and hinders photosynthesis, also might block the pores they use to reject salt. Try adding some epsom salt to the water as well, as mangroves need magnesium to displace salt in their cells. Plus the magnesium will boost coralline growth. Of course, dose with care and with a test kit!

V

[melev]

staticfishmonger. can I use that picture on my page? I get a lot of email about the clamping electrical socket and that one is pretty self-explanatory. I'd add it to my Review Page if that okay with you.

Diatoms are typical in new setups, so they'll die back in a short period of time. Plus your macro algae will help consume the nutrients they fuel upon.

codling, please let us know what your results are. I'm pretty sure you'll be pleased.

Gold, yes it is chromed on the outside. Mine just looks a bit salty. ;)

Vincerama2, thank you! I've been wondering what I should do to clean off the leaves. I don't believe I'll be dosing epsoms salt in my little refugium, as it is tied into the full system and I don't plan on trying to raise Mg system-wide.

[staticfishmonger]

by all means of course you can use the photo. your site was one of the first things i found while researching reef aquaria and it helped me alot in the planning of my system. thak you...

[staticfishmonger]

here this may be better i ran it through my photo editor and cranked up the brightness so you can see the unit better. your welcome to use either or both...

http://img29.photobucket.com/albums/v86/staticfishmonger/refugium_lighting_2.jpg

[gold]

yea thanks for the great advice on mangroves!!!

I guess i have figured out why my light is noit working like everyone else's here.... becasue it is a different bulb. It looks exactly he same but instead of chrome reflector it is whitish... I look inside and i can make out the shape of the spiral compact flouresent inside the plastic guard. What i would really lie to know is how to find/order the exact bulb you have MELEV because the HD here only carries these "white reflector" kind....
thanks :)

[codling]

See my post above, if you go to that site they have about every type of PC screw in bulb you can imagine, of course shipping is more than finding one local but much cheaper than an expensive PC fixture.

PS Make sure to search for the appropriate color spectrum 5100K or more.

Hope that helps.

Jim

[melev]

Brett, the SKU is on the webpage, so get your local Home Depot to help you locate it, or have them ship in a few for you and your reef buddies.

http://www.melevsreef.com/fuge_bulb.html

[cheeto]

So I added a second one of these lights to my fuge today in hopes of getting even more growth =) I also tapped alumnium sheeting around all the sides but the front to try to reflect light back into the fuge.

Here is my fuge as of today
http://you.dontknow.us/tank/fuge6-15/fullfuge6-15.JPG
http://you.dontknow.us/tank/fuge6-15/closemacro.JPG
http://you.dontknow.us/tank/fuge6-15/2lights.JPG

[Fonchy]

What is your light cycle on your sump with this bulb??? I got a light on my macro (not this one) but my lights are left on 24/7

[cheeto]

I leave mine on 24/7

[codling]

Here is an interesting result I measured this afternoon:

6/13 Placed this bulb on my refugium to replace a small T5 I had, as I mentioned before my Chaeto was exhibiting very little growth. Nitrate levels were over 100. Ph 8.3, SG 1.024-1.026, Nitrite <5, Ammonia ~0

Nothing changed in between:

6/15 Noticable growth in Chaeto, Nitrates ~20, Nitrate <5, Ammonia ~0, Ph 8.3

Nice results. Will keep you all posted.
:D

Hope the results keep improving.

Jim

[codling]

Sorry, forgot to mention as well. 24/7 light cycle. My system sump and refugium are in the garage.

[gold]

what about commercial Metal Halide bulbs and ballasts not used for aquariums? couldnt i buy a 23.00 MH bulb and commercial ballast and just run that on a fuge with tons of growth?

[codling]

Big difference between commercial lights and specific use lights like aquarium lamps can be the color spectrum. If you find a lamp that has the correct color spectrum then you are home free. Others please chime in, but I think you are looking for 5100k and above. That's where the price difference starts to show.

As far as the ballast goes, it doesn't make that much of a difference with HID fixtures, just make sure the ballast will drive the wattage and type of lamp (Mercury, Metal Hallide, etc). Don't forget the voltage input as well, because commercial ballasts are available in any voltage up to 480V.

Hope that helps.

Jim

[melev]

I run mine 24/7 as well. Gold, you might go with Metal Halide if you wish, but it will cost you more than $15. :D

[alanseah]

and not to mention the elect bill you going to get every month..

[gold]

parents get the bill so no problemo....

[gold]

so what is the part # and will home dopt order it for me, only for one bulb?

[melev]

Gold, did you not look at the page I linked? The SKU is listed. I would imagine Home Depot will have to order one case, but you won't have to buy all the bulbs.

[webpolk]

Here is my regugium with the new light. I took this picture last night after adding two handfuls of new Macro, and before creating a sandstorm with a couple new bags.
http://port80studios.com/reef/refugium.jpg

I will try to post a follow up in another month to test growth rate for this bulb. I cant wait to need to prune it back... :D

Steve

[maroun.c]

Big difference between commercial lights and specific use lights like aquarium lamps can be the color spectrum. If you find a lamp that has the correct color spectrum then you are home free. Others please chime in, but I think you are looking for 5100k and above. That's where the price difference starts to show


I found some 10 k 15 k and 20K MH lamps at a nearby electrical store and they're for around 10 -15 dollars do you think i could use any of those bulbs for my refugium?
also which one is best for caulerpa does it have any preference?

[headshrink]

What is the same of that store!!??
What was the wattage on the MH lamps?

[melev]

Bob, he's posting from Lebanon.

MH bulbs will produce heat and consume more power than what I've been recommending here in this thread. I know that Caulerpa grows under 6500K and 5100K, pretty much the same rate of growth.

[Genetics]

hey melev I just wanted to thank you for posting your lighting. I ended up redoing my tank this week to try to make it more attractive by hiding the refugium under the tank. The bulb fits in well and I hope it won't produce much heat.

[melev]

It really doesn't put off much heat at all. I have one pointed down through a hole cut into the wooden shelf of my 29g's stand, and it isn't a problem at all. I did worry it might get singed, but even with 1/8" around the bulb, there is no reason to indicate there is a problem.

[maroun.c]

then you would recommend me getting one of these bulbs if i ever am able to find it here or go with fluorescents right?

[HRSeay]

Deleted Message

[melev]

Maroun.c, yes I would suggest you get this bulb if possible. What is your power source? Is it 110v or 220v? I really can't help too much considering your location.

People have used VHO and PCs bulbs as well, so I would guess there is something you can get that will work. I really think MH is too much for a refugium area.

[szesteve]

Melev,

Thanks for the info from your website. I was contemplating what sort of lighting to use for my fuge and saw u use this so I tried it out too!

In canada it costs $30 for the clip plus the bulb.

Btw, I didn't remove the aluminium reflector it came with, is that okay?

[melev]

Steve, I would remove the reflector. It is unnecessary and will trap heat around the ceramic base which may lead to the bulb overheating. At that point, it virtually shuts down, just barely glowing a faint orange. If this happens, just turn it off for an hour and it will restart again.

I don't use a reflector on either of my refugiums, and so they've never overheated. But the former 6500K spiral bulb I used to use did overheat as described above.

[headshrink]

Originally posted by melev
Bob, he's posting from Lebanon.

MH bulbs will produce heat and consume more power than what I've been recommending here in this thread. I know that Caulerpa grows under 6500K and 5100K, pretty much the same rate of growth.

Yeah, I noticed this right before I pushed the 'send' button.... but sent it anyways since there is a Lebonon CA.

[maroun.c]

Hi the power here is 220 volts do you think it is available in 220 volts? my brother is in boston right now and i could add one more item to the list of things he's getting for my tank.
i will try to buy it from here i don't know if i'll be able to get the same bulb from the same manufacturer here i'll just take a copy of the pic and ask if they have the similar lamp or any other similar one. should i call it a flood light or just a bulb? also if i can't find it here do you think it'll be good going with ultrawhite marine fluorescents or should i add any actinic lights to them?
thanks for the help. i'm redoing all my refugium may be this week end and i want to get things right this time from the begining to have a nice and easy to move in setup that is why i'm trying to get things ready in advance.

[melev]

Maroun.c, I would suggest you have your brother call them up and ask if they make a 220v version, and if so where could he get it (or would they ship it directly to you perhaps).

The company is Commercial Electric.
2455 Paces Ferry Road N.W.
Atlanta, Georgia 30339
800 378-6998

SKU 774-265
PAR 38 Floodlamp - 19w

HTH

[szesteve]

maroun,

I was from Singapore and I'm in Canada now so everything i bought prior to coming here had to be multi voltage so you had better check too.

melev,

Thanks for the info, i'll get to removing it...btw, we should get Home Depot to be one of our equipment sponsors since so many ppl buy from them. :p