Lighting plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy, vibrant aquarium. It not only enhances the look of your tank but also supports plant growth, coral development, and fish health. Whether you’re deciding between T5 and T8 lighting, troubleshooting LED issues, or choosing the right bulb colour, this guide covers everything you need to know.
What’s the Difference Between T5 and T8 Lighting?
The “T” in T5 and T8 stands for “tubular”, while the number refers to the bulb’s diameter in eighths of an inch. T5 bulbs are thinner and produce a higher output, making them ideal for advanced planted freshwater tanks and reef saltwater aquariums.
However, this higher output comes at a cost—T5s can be three to five times more expensive to run than T8 bulbs. T8 lighting, being the more common and affordable choice, is widely used in standard aquariums. While it can be used in reef setups, it is far less effective for supporting coral growth, especially for demanding hard corals.
What Do the Different Coloured Bulbs Do?
Different bulbs serve different purposes:
Blue/Actinic Bulbs – Enhance coral fluorescence, support photosynthesis in marine aquariums, and promote Coraline Algae growth.
White/Daylight Bulbs – Mimic natural sunlight for freshwater plants and general aquarium viewing.
Colour-Enhancing Bulbs – Highlight the vibrant colours of your fish, improving the overall aesthetic of your tank.
Do LED Aquarium Lights Need Replacing?
LED lights have a much longer lifespan than incandescent or fluorescent bulbs, but they’re not immortal. Over time, LEDs gradually fade and can fail prematurely if not cared for properly. To extend their life:
Avoid submerging them in water. Even water-resistant LEDs are not designed for full immersion.
Keep them clear of other lighting types such as metal halides, T5s, or fluorescents, as excess heat can shorten their life.
Regularly clean off salt creep or mineral deposits to prevent corrosion of the circuit boards and heat sinks.
Troubleshooting LED Lights
If your LED lights stop working:
Disconnect the mains power and check the plug, cables, and wires for damage. Replace the fuse if needed. Check the product manual for more details.
For LZ aquarium hoods (no longer sold), ensure both top switches are in the “On” position. Remove the hood, detach the lights from the clips, and check for obvious damage. Ensure both bulbs are securely fitted into the two-pin connectors—you should hear a faint click when properly seated.
Can Freshwater Lights Be Used in a Marine Tank?
No, freshwater lights are not suitable for marine aquariums. They lack the intensity and spectrum needed to support corals and plants. Marine lights provide a blue tint and more power, promoting Coraline Algae growth and enhancing the appearance of saltwater fish.
Looking to upgrade your lighting? Explore our full range of lighting to keep your aquarium thriving.