In article ,
dc wrote:
Brian wrote in news:bsheller-FBCA59.21583610092006
:

wasn't doing too badly before. Any other advantages to CFL? Certainly,
the T-8 bulbs are cheaper. Thanks,

Compact fluorescent is more efficient and have a narrower spectrum, which
means you get more light per watt, not just higher wattage.

The phosphours, and therefore spectra are the same across all tubes.

The bulbs also have a longer lifespan--about 14 months before the spectrum
begins to degrade vs. standard fluorescent's 6 months.

The spectrum doesn't degrade the total luminous flux does. The specrtrum is
constant.

The only advantage standard fluorescent has is cost and accessibility of
replacement bulbs, but you are replacing them more often.

The one disadvantage you may encounter with compact fluorescent is that the
increase in lumens may require CO2 supplementation in order to avoid algae
growth--potentially anyway. I have run compact fluorescet planted tanks
both with and without CO2 with good results.

Bah, use floating plants to cut down light if there's algae.


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