T5 tube housing (spray or not to spray)

hi everyone i am currently making a housing for a T5 light fixture and i was wondering if i needed to spray a reflective color on the inside of the gutter?

some people mentioned to leave it white as it will also effectively reflect the light towards the fish tank


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Hi why not use reflective tape or foil?

 

reflective tape seems like a great idea. i think ill give it a try

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i have to remove the wiring from the bulb holders (clips) and stick them onto the sides with epoxy. I'll have to label the wiring so it gets wired to the correct clip ports.

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also i would like to know if it would be advisable to attach the ballast inside the hood or outside?



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Hi
If the light unit going to be resting on glass lid. The ballast will be fine inside.

I would drill 2 holes on each side on the top of PVC pipe to push the T5 light fitting through. So the wires and ballast is outside and like keep the wires on top of PVC. So only the 2 light connectors is the epoxy to the side. If it makes sense.

 

@Cesar also made me a fitting for my 2m tank with gutters like you have and he put the ballasts inside
However the lights were suspended on top of the tank and the tank had glass sliders

If you put it straight on top of the tank and it has no sliders, I think the humidity could cause a problem