What Type of Fish Tank Light Do You Need?



The fish tank light that you choose will ultimately depend on the fish tank that you choose. There are lots of different types of fish tank light options available and each one has its own uses, and the life of the bulb can vary enormously. Choosing the correct lighting system can go a long way to helping to make your tank look great. A hexagon fish tank light looks stunning when it is in the corner of a room, especially tall upright hexagon fish tanks.

One common fish tank light bulb that has a life of about sixteen weeks and is normally around fifteen to twenty watts is called an incandescent light. This type of light may be a great choice for your hexagon fish tank as it is quite cheap to buy. A great bonus with a light of this type is that it can be purchased in many different colors making this a great choice for a hexagon fish tank light. These incandescent lights are often used for small fish or a beginner's start up kit. Its limitations include a high amount of heat output, and a narrow spectrum light. Again this is perfect light for a hexagon fish tank as small fish are preferred.

An alternative fish tank light that is popular is the fluorescent light. This type of bulb has a lower wattage amount than the incandescent light and is very cheap. This light also has a wide range of colors and sizes. A florescent bulb can be used in both a freshwater and saltwater aquarium and this fish tank light is probably the one most often used amongst aquarium enthusiasts.

Another variation on the standard fluorescent fish tank light is the T-5 HO Fluorescent light. Its wattage is comparable to the standard light, but it can last much longer, as much as two years total shine time. Needless to say if you don't want to change your bulbs frequently, and your reef tank is less than twenty four inches deep, this choice could very well be the best one for you. This type would not be suitable for a hexagon fish tank light due to the depth of this type of aquarium.

If your fish tank or reef tank is deeper than 24 inches, perhaps the easiest and best choice for a fish tank light available to you is that of a metal halide light. These lights have very high wattage, mainly between 70 and 1000 watts, and can last six to eighteen months. A fish tank light this powerful though, does have a few problems associated with it that should be considered. It can produce a higher overall heat and may require a chiller to keep the temperature of your tank at the correct level.

No matter which fish tank light you choose make sure it's one that will fit your tank and you needs best. Be sure to weigh all your options, and talk with the professionals at the aquarium store. If you have not yet bought your hexagon fish tank, this may not be the best option for you. Although it looks stunning, careful consideration as to what fish you put in it needs to be taken into account.