different types of lighting

[skoom]

Would somebody be kind enough to explain the difference between normal fluorescent lighting and compact fluorescence? Thanks.

[kalebjarrod]

good question i didn't know there was a difference?

[dreamer]

the size
i believe cf light can penetrate deeper than normal fluro

[skoom]

Does anyone own a compact fluorescence light?

Is it brighter but uses more energy?

Thanks.

[Al]

A normal T8 fluorescent bulb will have an output somewhere in the order of 70 lumens/Watt. While a compact fluorescent's (T5) output will be around 100 lumens/Watt.

This combined with the fact that compact fluorescent globes are shorter for the same light output of a normal fluorescent, you can fit in more light into a smaller area, meaning more intense lighting.

HTH

[kalebjarrod]

thanks for that Al

[skoom]

so what is the standard output for let say a 3ft compact fluorescent?

[buttnaked]

Single Catalina compact tube 55 watts.

My compacts have dual spectrum one part 10000K and the other 6500K.

I'm running a planted discus tank with 4 x 55watts (compact) + 2 x 40watts (standard T8 tubes - Hagen Power-glo 18000K and Life-glo II 6700K).

I have a few red plants that require high intensity lighting, and it doesn't bother the discus. They are swimming around and eating well.

[jwight]

I used to have normal flourescents on a community planted tank and changed it to compact flourescents with the same watts and the plants grow much much better. It appears to me to be less bright. A much better option for planted discus tanks.