LED Spectrum + Power Output + Suggested Models

GR1KTR

GR1KTR

Aspiring Aquascaper
I'm completely new to LED lighting, and have 3 questions..

1. I understand that getting the spectrum right is important for fluorescents.. How do I know which LED setup has the right spectrum for a planted tank?

2. I'm interested in a medium strength LED that is the equivalent of a 2.5wpg fluorescent over a 44L tank. What power output should I be looking for in an LED?

3. Can anyone list some medium light LED setups suitable for the smaller pressurised CO2 tank, to guide me on what to look for?

Thanks ASW!
 
1) spectrum actually isn't that important as long as you aren't going so low you end up with actinic lighting. It really becomes a matter of personal preference in the look of the light. Most people like variations of Daylight (6000-6800K), 10,000 K, and 5500k. I personally use 3 daylights with one 10,000k to improve the blue colors because the daylights are too yellow for my taste. I like the look of 8000k bulbs but cannot find them anywhere in the states.

2)I don't know much about LEDs, but I do know they vary greatly in the PAR output. Some high performance LEDs perform very well, others okay, others not so good. It is so hard to say. I would look for some the DIY builds, but most people aren't looking for the "okay" performance, they are looking for the high powered most potent LEDs. From what I understand is the Cree LEDs are good for DIY. As far as commercial models most are aimed at the saltwater folks or casual fish keepers not wanting to grow plants. Hopefully some who have looked into it more than I can chime in. Also, hopefully some of the Aussies around here can help direct you to local brands/models that work.

3) These seem to perform well for a fair price: http://www.adana-usa.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=72_74&products_id=749

The aquasky from ADA is aimed at freshwater, but is expensive and powerful.
 
Thanks Shawn. It's sounding like LEDs may be a little more trouble than they're worth.. I've really struggled to find reasonably priced models here in Australia so far, so I would love some feedback from a local if possible.
 
GR1KTR said:
Thanks Shawn. It's sounding like LEDs may be a little more trouble than they're worth.. I've really struggled to find reasonably priced models here in Australia so far, so I would love some feedback from a local if possible.
Click to expand...


I think the tech is there and LEDs are good options, but the availability and demand keeps the prices high. That is why we see so many folks making DIY LEDs. Combine that with the uncertainty of how appropriate is a particular commercial model for a planted tank and its an investment that is tough to make. My experience with LEDs tells me they perform better than tubes, power demand, PAR, less heat, etc. I've bought LEDs that are great for a low light tank (over my 12 gallon) but it in no way could grow a carpet of plants well and stems did not get color.

The aquasky over my 30c is awesome, but high light and expensive. All 8000k I think.

Module LEDs with daylight LEDs as primary color temp, some blues and maybe some reds would work nicely. But those have limited spread and to cover a tank greater than 60 cm you probably need more than one, which gets really expensive compared to T5s. Where you win is bulb and electricity cost. The initial investment is more for LEDs, but replacing bulbs twice a year adds up. Costs me $100 every 6 months, over two years or so I've paid the difference out and will continue to...

just some more to think about...
 
Hi Shawn. I decided not to give up and searched some more. I came across this: 30cm Led aquarium light Blue/White which is available here in Australia. I compared it against the suggestion you made: Archaea Slim Pro and found them to be pretty similar. I am only lighting a 35x35x35cm tank, so it might be pretty affordable as long as it's suitable in the first place.

Here are the specs:

Archaea Slim Pro

Quantity of LED Lamps: 135pcs
Color temperature:White lamp (7000k~8000k)
Luminous intensity: 1400mcd or 17.60Lm per LED
Total Power per fixture: 7.56W
Power per LED lamp: 56mW
Input Power: AC120V-240V
Output Power: DC 12V
Power cord total length: 9 ft
Light Housing Dimension: (L 17"xW 2-3/4"xH 1/2")

30cm Led aquarium light Blue/White

Fixture is equipped with 33 LEDs in 8000K, 30 white leds, 3 blue at 460nm
Dimensions - 30cm -45cm L x 4.5cm H x 12.5cm W
7 watt total output
8000Kl LEDs
460nm blue
Slim and contemporary light design
2 mode on / off function for day and night use. With blue only switch.
Extendable legs
Non-corrosive Black plastic housing
Low voltage power supply
110V - 220V

Do you think I'm on the right track here?
 
Hey Glenn,

Did you ever end up getting that LED light? If so, how did you go? I am also looking into this right now and, you're right, it is hard to find a good option without spending a fortune. The other one I am looking at is the Up Aqua Pro LED series. I've seen one in the shop. The light intensity doesn't seem that bright but I have no idea what sort of PAR it delivers to the substrate.

Cheers

Simon
 
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