Q: T5 lights (2ft) to buy off the rack or DIY

[magic1980]

Hi there, as above.

I called a shop in Thomson and was quoted $40+ for 2tube lights and $60+ for 3 tubes.

I say a weblink on the parts for DIY.
easily cost $80-$100 for 2 tubes.

My question is should i still DIY or buy off the rack?

whats the pro and cons for each?
if off the rack, any brothers here have gd recommendation pls.

Thinking of changing my PL to T5...
(heard it save more electricity....)

Usually people DIY when they 1) have the technical competency, 2) can't find something on the market that suits their needs and 3) want to save some money.

Technically it should be cheaper but if there is something on the market that suits your needs and you still have some cash left, why not go and buy it? I always recommend that, maybe I am lazy.

Also, if the light spoils (touch wood), there is no one else you can turn to. It is a little like buy a PC. If you buy from Dell you should have to pay more, but they come with warranties and after-sales support. Another con is that it might not be exactly what you want. If you decide to build your own PC, you have to spend time getting the individual components and then assemble them. Anything that can't work and is not a part specific issue, you have to troubleshoot.

I DIY my own set of 3ft T5HO lighting set. I may have save a bit in the process but overall, the time and effort put in is not worth the money. The main reason I DIY cause I can't find any made to fit light sets that can fit my tank nicely.

I love to DIY, I DIY my own 3ft t5HO dual tube. If you're technically sound, why not? =)

Originally Posted by humvee

I love to DIY, I DIY my own 3ft t5HO dual tube. If you're technically sound, why not? =)

may i know wat ballast you are using ? may i know where you brought it?
if a 4ft t5ho wat king of ballast we should buy?

[troyz]

Originally Posted by chrisamos

may i know wat ballast you are using ? may i know where you brought it?
if a 4ft t5ho wat king of ballast we should buy?

hi bro, Ariba or Elbiru e-ballast will do...it can last u for years

Originally Posted by chrisamos

may i know wat ballast you are using ? may i know where you brought it?
if a 4ft t5ho wat king of ballast we should buy?

4ft... hmmm sound like a big tank...
Is better to buy if u are not skilled in fixing it... because fire hazard or electrocuting ur tank is a high chance....

I think buying will be more worth if for bigger tank as it comes with warranty and stuff overall will cost more i think unless u can find cheaper ones..... Don't need to waste time unless u have plenty... if is a small tank definitely no advice the price difference is not really that big unless u have spare parts from old lights...

Due to the fact that existing light sets are mass produced, they are usually cheaper than what you can DIY. Not to mention the cost in terms of time (sourcing for materials).

You should consider DIY only if you can't find something in the market that is suitable for your needs.

the brand of the ballest ,the type of tube ,and not forgetting the spider parabolic reflector.all add up to the cost for a diy set.not forgetting the effort and time spent on assembly of the parts.

Some people just DIY for the satisfaction.

I think there are already a lot of good light sets out there available in the market.