how long shoudl I run my lights?

[callieformula]

I just recently replaced my lights on my 55 gallon FO tank with a PC light. How long should I turn my lights on for. should I run the actinic and the white lights at the same time or seperatly, and for how long?

 

[phishy]

It is a personal preference thing. IMO you should run the actinic for 12 hours and the white for 10 (turning on and hour after and off and hour before the actinic).
If you see an increase in algae growth, maybe keep them off a little longer.
I like to keep mine on during the times I am around, so I can enjoy the "fruits of my labor".
Good luck.

 

[jon.316]

I keep my blue acitinic lights on at all times so I can enjoy my fish. secondly, my white lights gives off a much brighter light when i use both (white light alone gives off a yellowish tint). But yes its just a matter of preference, more lights = more algae growth AND your actually supposed to simulate nature so 12-15 hours of direct light is suggested. But like i said, My blue lights are never off!

 

[shine~on]

I keep my 55 gal lights on about 12 hrs a day. actinic's on for 15 mins before turned on and after turned on.