Freshwater for the Kids! Build

[AHP]

Ok Finally I am able to post some photos. This is still a work in progress but with the pictures it should give you an idea how it is going to look and the setup.

1. I need to add two support boards in the middle back of the stand. They are not in the picture because I am debating on how to install them, I am thinking L brackets.

2. This is just the bare bones image. I will be adding hardwood or plywood on both sides and back. For access on the front I was thinking about using a bi folding cabinet doors setup for easy access. Now for the bottom I was thinking about a thin piece of plywood and a double coat of water sealant.

Now for the pictures.
I had to remove some wainscoting to get to the drywall.

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Here is the tank stand, note the 3 inches from wall to stand to allow access for pvc given I drill the tank at a later date. Also I have to add two boards in the middle back for support.

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Hope you enjoy and sorry it took me awhile to post. I was sent out of the state for work.

[SunnyHouTX]

The 8000K pops out the blues in my Blue Giants just fine. It's a good all round spectrum IMO

[AHP]

Ok. I guess I keep thinking about saltwater and don't really needs blues unless I want the fist to pop in color.

[SunnyHouTX]

Personally, I wouldn't get something like that for a FW tank, since the cost/benefit is not to my liking. A 48" 8000K Ecoxotic Stunner strip will run you around $100 with power supply. I still use mine that I bought almost 2 years ago.

[AHP]

If you got the chedda, go for it LOL

But does this product have a good wrap or it is a waste of time.
I was also looking at RapidLEDs.

Trying to look at all the different LED's to not miss something. But on the same token try to read as much as I can, hence the multiple questions.

[SunnyHouTX]

If you got the chedda, go for it LOL

[AHP]

What about Reef Breeders Photon48?

http://www.reefbreeders.com/photon48.html

[mistahoo]

Ecoxotic Stunners for those of us who don't ball with Radions. Or you could check out eBay for some Beamswork fixtures.

+1. There's also the Finnex Ray2 which is really bright. Buildmyled fixtures that's good. Beamswork are a good cheap light. You could do LED spotlights if you want.

Sent from my spaceship using Tapatalk 2.

[Darbex]

The bulbs on a T5 last about 6-9 months depending on hours and how you drive them. LEDs can last up to about 10 years on good ones assuming 12 hr on time

[jeb102385]

You cant put a dimmer on t5s. But the light you have linked to is a compact florescent. That isn't the same as t5s.like I said you can turn half the fixture, then turn on the the whole, then half again. And any timer from the store will work for an aquarium light

[AHP]

So question about T5's how long do they last?
I was looking at this
Coralife NEW STYLE Lunar Aqualight Compact Fluorescent Aquarium Lighting Fixture, 4X65W, 48"

http://www.marineandreef.com/48_inch_4_lamp_Coralife_Lunar_Aqualight_CF_Light_p/res08609.htm

If I was to go with T5's that seems fairly nice but i don't think it has a couple of things.
- Sunset / Sunrise
- Dimmer
- Timmer
If I was to get something like this how would I have the lights function like the 3 settings?

[Darbex]

Remember you get what you pay for. With Ecotech and Ecoxotic you are also paying for "insurance" if something goes wrong with the light they are pretty good at fixing it for you. Ecotech more so than any other company I have ever seen.

[AHP]

Mentally, I am a baller... but I have kids and that makes me not a baller.

[SunnyHouTX]

Ecoxotic Stunners for those of us who don't ball with Radions. Or you could check out eBay for some Beamswork fixtures.

[AHP]

Man $1200 for some lights, I can see why people like to DYI this one. Are their any cheaper LED options? I guess I could got CL and look around.