Lighting and glass covers

[reel1090]

Hi,
I am lighting a 55 gal with a Corallife 2 tube t5ho 48in fixture (6500k bulbs) for 11 hours a day. To keep the evaporation down am using glass covers. Does anyone know what effect the covers would have on the effectiveness of the lamps?
Jim

[Darkblade48]

The glass will slightly reduce the amount of light that reaches the aquarium.

On another note, 11 hours is a bit long for a photoperiod; perhaps you can try reducing it to 8 hours?

[BBradbury]

Originally Posted by reel1090

Hi,
I am lighting a 55 gal with a Corallife 2 tube t5ho 48in fixture (6500k bulbs) for 11 hours a day. To keep the evaporation down am using glass covers. Does anyone know what effect the covers would have on the effectiveness of the lamps?
Jim

Hello Jim...

The effect will be minimal, if at all, if you clean the canopy regularly. If not, the minerals in the water will build up on the glass and make it a bit hazy. I've noticed a build up on my tank canopy if I don't clean it weekly.

B

[reel1090]

Thanks guys,

I will reduce the time the lights are on although the plants are going great. The glass covers that I am using have a black plastic hinge in the middle that I am sure does not help.
Jim

[Darkblade48]

Originally Posted by reel1090

Thanks guys,

I will reduce the time the lights are on although the plants are going great. The glass covers that I am using have a black plastic hinge in the middle that I am sure does not help.
Jim

As mentioned, the amount of light that is loss is probably minimal, but there definitely is a bit going on.

Don't worry too much about it though.

[mach_six]

Just make sure the glass is cleaned regularly. Residue that builds and dries up will block a noticable amount of light.