Aquarium fluorescent lighting is preferred by many hobbyists compared to an incandescent lamp because of different reasons. Fluorescent bulbs are known to produce high quality illumination without emitting too much heat. With that, these bulbs are simpler to maintain because you don’t have to regularly check for tank temperature status. Although the initial cost is higher than incandescent, you’ll eventually gain back what you’ve spend because of the low energy bills.
Just like all types of lighting for fish tanks, fluorescent bulbs are also judged based on the intensity and quality of their light output display. Fluorescent light output bears a close resemblance to the ones produced by the sun, so it’s generally safer and brings out more of the vibrant colors of your fishes and some live-plants. There are two broad types of fluorescent lights: standard and power compact types. The best one would depend on a number of things, such as the wattage, grade, size, and lumen output just to name a few.
You might have come across the abbreviations N.O. and V.H.O. fluorescent. These actually stand for Normal Output (N.O.) light and Very High Output (V.H.O.) light. Basically, very high output lights are better than normal output lights because of its capability to spread light on deep tanks with thick amounts of live-plants without requiring too many bulb fixtures. It also holds more advantage over metal halide lights, which concentrate light on one direction, because it spreads light equally on your tank water surface.
Power compact fluorescent lights, also called as compact fluorescent, hold more benefits compared to the traditional type because these create superior light output and are more energy-efficient. The typical base of power compact fluorescent is usually single-ended while the shapes are available in twin, quad, triple, and square structures. Since these also use different pin configurations, hobbyists should buy replacements with the same pin configuration (e.g. 2 pin or 4 pin) because these bulbs are definitely not exchangeable regardless if they have the same length or wattage.
There are currently many great fluorescent lighting brands out there, which could possibly add to the anxiety of most beginners. Coralife, Phillips, and G.E. aquarium lights are usually a good place to start your search. The prices of these products could vary greatly, so make sure that you choose wisely for the best aquarium fluorescent lighting that’ll fit your requirements.
