[Ross]

Originally Posted by Ironwood

A brief comparison of T5 vs compact fluorescent. A 4foot 54 watt T5 lamp has 5000 lumens per bulb and life expectancy of 20,000 hours while a 55 watt compact fluorescent bulb output is rated at 3500 lumens and 8000 hours. T5s are cheaper and the output is more stable over the life of the bulb. T5s are readily available in range of color temps. from 3000 K to 6500 K even 10,000 K. Only drawback to t5 is initial cost of fixture for startup after that you are saving over other methods.

I agree fully and will probably opt for this solution for my terrarium, however when space is an issue, the CFs are sometimes a more doable solution. I my case with all the hangers for orchids, I had no choice.