PC bulb replacement

[sbojan]

What is the normal useful life of PC bulbs? I have a current USA orbit setup that has been in use for about 6 months. The guys at the LFS says it is time to replace the bulbs... Do I need to do this now?

Thanks

[wanareef]

Yep, around 6 mths

[Loverotties]

I heard they last longer then T8 & T12s But I would do them at 6 to be safe!

[porkchop]

I've had a Current setup for 7 months now and I am starting to notice the bulbs are nowhere near as bright. Seems like they are drastically loosing their output. I would say 6 is right 7 is a stretch.

Did you get a setup with Dual Days and Dual Actinics? How is your coraline growth. Mine is suffering. I think I will replace bulbs w/ a 10,000k and a 420nm. instead of the duals.

[mg]

I would also suggest staggering the replacement so there isn't much of a change in par values going from all old bulbs to all new bulbs. I would always run bulbs about 8 months, and with 8 bulbs I would replace 1 a month.

[sbojan]

Thanks for the advise,
When I put the replacement bulbs in should I shorten the time the lights are on as to not shock the corals with the much brighter light? On the subject that Pork brought up, what color bulbs are my best bet for a reef tank?

Pork - the coraline growth is ok, but I don't have anything to compare it to and yes I am using the duals.