The Cheapest Way to Light a Reef Tank

[jimlin]

the tubes oxidize rapidly rapidly after 2 years according to firecracker bob. dome discoloration and scratches will also likely to occur depending on weather.

Why would he replace it every couple of years?

[Ryan S]

Couldn't they just use glass? That wouldn't change colors or scratch...?

[jimlin]

good point. it just have to be strong enough to withstand the element and not shatter to pieces if it does break.

Couldn't they just use glass? That wouldn't change colors or scratch...?

[firecrackerbob]

Ive heard its the aluminum in the tubes themselves that is the problem... par starts to drop off rapidly... here is one (long) account of the process... one of his last posts is pretty discouraging... still might be worth it though...

 

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1561945&page=16

[firecrackerbob]

BTW, my next step that I was about to take before life got a little crazy was to contact sola tube directly and see what they say. if they are willing to put in writing that they support this application and will keep the warranty for fish use, I say go for it. otherwise, I wouldnt put the investment in..JMHO.

[firecrackerbob]

oh and heres another thread... Does anyone here know JMBoehling? I tried Pmin him a while back to see what his experience was like still, but no response either...

 

http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=56125&pp=25&page=40

[zygote2k]

A member going by "dave w" was originally designing his 3000g aquarium with 6 Solatubes in his Clifton house. He went with the greenhouse instead.

Edited April 30, 2013 by Coral Hind
removed full name