Switching from LED to T5

[jgraz]

So my fixture is in and the plan is to make the switch soon. I'll be going from Ocean Revive S026 LEDs to an ATI 8x80w fixture. I know switching to LEDs can be a sensitive issue, but what about going back. Considering the light output of the ATI are there any issues I should be concerned with?

 

[horseplay]

Start at low settings then work your way up. These lights are bright. I would start with 50%t5 and 20% led. I almost bleached mine.

 

[jgraz]

I'm getting away from LEDs, and ATI does not make a dimmable fixture in my size. So it's straight T5

 

[asonitez]

I'm getting away from LEDs, and ATI does not make a dimmable fixture in my size. So it's straight T5

I did the switch both directions many times... I think I made my corals retarded.... in either case I did the SAME thing every time.

Since the T5's will put out less DIRECTED light vs Directed Light of the LED's you can simply raise the fixture about 5" than normal and run them for HALF as long as you ran your T5's. OR... Do what I did and only turn on

8 Bulbs for 3.5Hours then 2 Bulbs for 5 Hours for a week. See how your corals respond and then go back into your regular schedule. Your bulbs will be new probably so they will put out a LOT of PAR which is why I say HALF as long and higher than normal.

 

[dirtycontour]

I would just start the fixture higher above the tank. Gradually lower the fixture until you reach the recommended height. I started mine about 12" from the water surface, then lowered the fixture an inch a week for three weeks. Nine inches above the water is good for me but I do not keep SPS.