Changing bulbs when they are still lighting due to age?

[aquiman]

Hi all. With a FOLR 90 G tank and no corals, it's suggested in my light manual I change my bulbs every 6 to 8 months. There are two t5 48" whites and two t5 48" blues. Not a cheap thing to do. Is it necessary while they seem fine? Thanks.

 

[btldreef]

Bad bulbs can cause algae growth. I usually push to 12-15 months on fowlrs, but it depends on how long you're running them. If you start to see some algae growth, cut back the lighting and save up for new bulbs

 

[snakeblitz33]

If your tank isn't growing a lot of hair algae, then your lights should be fine for a little while. If you start showing signs of algae growth, I would recommend changing them.

 

[btldreef]

If your tank isn't growing a lot of hair algae, then your lights should be fine for a little while. If you start showing signs of algae growth, I would recommend changing them.
Beat you

 

[snakeblitz33]

Jinks!

 

[aquiman]

Sorry I never thanked you guys for responding. I was waiting for an email as an indicator that I got a response and one never came! Thanks!

 

[snakeblitz33]

Your welcome.
I personally believe that T5 bulbs are only good for 8 to 12 months and then have to be replaced. I actually date the bulb itself. I also wouldn't recommend replacing all of the bulbs at the same time, but one a week or so.

 

[aquiman]

Got it thx.