How Long Do T5 Aquarium Light Bulbs Last in Fish Tanks
By Eddie Waithaka @aquariawise
The lifespan of T5 aquarium light bulbs can vary depending on several factors, including the quality of the bulb, the frequency and duration of use, and the conditions of the aquarium environment.
On average, T5 aquarium light bulbs can last around 6-24 months or approximately 5,000-20,000 hours of use.
Higher-quality T5 bulbs are generally made with better materials and manufacturing processes and result in a longer lifespan (12 months or more) than inferior-quality bulbs, which degrade more quickly, leading to a shorter lifespan (slightly over 6 months).
Moreover, if the lights are used for long periods each day or are turned on and off frequently, this can decrease the lifespan of the bulbs. For example, if the lights are left on 12 hours a day, the bulbs will reach their 10,000-hour lifespan in approximately 21 months or less.
The conditions of the aquarium environment can also affect the lifespan of T5 bulbs. Factors such as temperature, humidity, and water quality play a role. For instance, if the aquarium water is highly acidic or alkaline, this can cause the bulbs to degrade more quickly, reducing their lifespan.
That said, it’s important to note that even if a T5 bulb has not burned out after 12-24 months, the light intensity it emits may have decreased significantly, which means that even if the bulb is still functioning, it may no longer be providing adequate lighting for the aquarium and may need replacement.
To maximize the lifespan of T5 aquarium light bulbs, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for use and keep the bulbs clean and free of debris.
Regularly inspecting the bulbs and replacing them as needed can also help to ensure optimal lighting conditions for your aquarium.
How Often Should You Replace Your Aquarium T5 Bulbs
Replace your T5 aquarium light bulbs once they have reached the end of their recommended lifespan or when their light output has noticeably decreased, which can happen anywhere between 6 and 24 months.
The light emitted by your T5 bulbs has decreased significantly if it is no longer adequate for your fish and plants, and I suggest you start shopping for replacements.
As mentioned earlier, this lifespan can be affected by several factors, including the quality of the bulb, the frequency and duration of use, and the conditions of the aquarium environment.
Ideally, as T5 bulbs are used, their phosphor coating will slowly breaks down, and the bulb start darkening due to aquarium evaporation, causing a decrease in the intensity and quality of the light they emit. This can happen even if the bulbs are high quality and under optimal conditions.
If your bulbs are still function after 6 months, start regularly inspecting them for signs of damage or wear, such as discoloration, blackening at the ends, or cracks. It will help you determine when to replace them.
Do T5 Aquarium Bulbs Get Dimmer Overtime
T5 aquarium bulbs tend to lose their brightness over time. This phenomenon occurs because the fluorescent coating on the inside of the bulb gradually deteriorates as the bulb is used. As a result, the light emitted decreases, reducing plant growth and causing less vibrant colors in your aquarium fish.
The rate at which T5 bulbs lose their brightness over time can depend on several factors, including the quality of the bulb, the type of ballast used to power it, and the environmental conditions in your aquarium.
However, most T5 bulbs will only noticeably lose their brightness after approximately 6-12 months of continuous use.
As such, replace your T5 bulbs every 12 months, even if they appear adequate. This will help to ensure that your plants and fish receive the appropriate levels of light they need to thrive.
Why Do T5 Aquarium Bulbs Stop Working
One of the most common causes of T5 bulb failure is the natural degradation of the fluorescent coating on the inside of the bulb.
Over time, this coating will wear down and become less effective, which can result in reduced brightness and complete failure of the bulb eventually.
Another reason that T5 bulbs can stop working is due to issues with the ballast, which is the component that regulates the amount of electrical current that flows through the bulb. If the ballast fails or becomes damaged, it can cause the bulb to flicker or stop working altogether.
Physical damage to the bulb, such as cracking or breakage, can also cause it to stop working. Exposure to excessive heat or moisture can also cause T5 bulbs to fail prematurely.
Obviously, a burned-out filament will also cause your aquarium T5 bulb to stop working. The filament is the part of the bulb that produces the light, and if it burns out, the bulb will no longer produce any light.
How Do You Know Your T5 Aquarium Bulb is Bad (Damageed)
There are several signs that your T5 bulb may be damaged (bad) and needs to be replaced, including burn out, flickering, and buzzing. Here are these and more reasons:
1— No Light Output
If your aquarium T5 bulb is not producing any light, it may indicate that the filament is burned-out or damaged. To check if the bulb is the issue, first, ensure that it is seated in the fixture properly and the connections are clean and free of debris.
If everything is in order, remove the bulb and hold it up to the light. Check if filament is burned out or broken. It should be visible as a dark spot or a gap in the wire.
If the filament is intact, check its continuity using a multimeter. Set the multimeter to the resistance or continuity mode and touch the probes to the two ends of the filament.
The multimeter will show infinite resistance or no continuity, in case the filament is damaged.
2— Flickering or flashing
If the T5 bulb is flickering or flashing on and off, it may indicate that the filament is damaged or the ballast is faulty. A damaged filament may cause the bulb to flash, while a bad ballast can cause the bulb to receive inconsistent power, resulting in intermittent light output.
To determine if the issue is with the filament or the ballast, try replacing the bulb with a new one. If the flickering persists, it may be an issue with the ballast.
3 — Dim or inconsistent light output
If your aquariumT5 bulb is giving off a dim or inconsistent light, it may indicate that the ballast is not providing enough voltage to the bulb or the light is nearing the end of its life.
As the bulb ages, its light output may become less consistent and will eventually burn out.
To determine if the issue is with the bulb or the ballast, try replacing the bulb with a new one. If the problem persists, it may be an issue with the ballast, not the bulb.
4— Discoloration
If the T5 bulb has a yellow or brown discoloration, it may indicate that it is past its useful life or has been exposed to excessive heat.
Over time, T5 bulbs can become discolored due to normal wear and tear or exposure to heat.
5 — Buzzing or humming sounds
A faulty ballast can cause the T5 bulb to produce a buzzing or humming sound. If you hear these sounds, try replacing the ballast to see if that resolves the issue.
