[Ross]

Originally Posted by ladyslipper

Hi guys, would anyone tell me when they replace their T5 and/or fluorscent tubes? I have my plants under both and had thought I would replace them on a yearly basis. Should I do it on a more frequent or less frequent basis?

Also, in Canada, how do you dispose of spent light tubes? Do we have to take them any place special or just treat them as "regular" light bulbs?

Regards, mary

My 2cents is that standard florescents (t12 and t8) fade at the ends with a drop off of light. T5 are a different breed and they don't fade at ends (as much). So at 12 months just have a set on-hand for replacement, but wait till light drops off suddenly. When florescents burn regularly, they tend to last longer. The "hours" rating is based on on-off cycles and short run times. Our application implies longer run times, thus a bit longer overall life. There are several here on board that have run these for longer than I have (t5) but I have used t8's for as long as they've been around and just keep a supply of tubes around "just in case"