Contrary to popular belief, (quality) metal halide bulbs seldom need replacement. Spectrometer reports of halide bulbs shows very little spectral shift even after several years of use. I've tested the spectral and PAR output of bulbs I've ran for almost five years against new bulbs, and there is virtually no difference between the two!
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'Quality' bulbs - any particular brands you'd recommend?
Posted by: Jeremai | 08/12/2010 at 02:31 PM
I have honestly only done spectral tests with phoenix bulbs, but I've done PAR test with Hamilton bulbs and they still have an excellent PAR output after several years of use.
Posted by: Captive Aquatics | 08/13/2010 at 12:00 AM