When to replace florescent bulbs?

[joshola]

Hey all,

I'm aware that power compact florescent bulbs lose their effectiveness after a while -- but after how long? I have a tall tank that's difficult to light adequately for corals because it only takes a 20-inch fixture. I've had a Corallife PC with a 96W 50/50 bulb that's now a year old. Is it time to replace it?? And should I switch the 50/50 bulb for a 6700K to boost the light for corals?

Thanks,

Josh

[danjen10]

A year is about right. I personally would change them and would stick with the 50/50. I think that 6700k is too yellow but it's all a matter of preference.

Dan

[joshola]

Great. Thanks

[scoop]

When I had pc's on my old tank I replaced the bulbs every 6 months, they seemed to really drop off after that.

[Loverotties]

I do them at 9 months!