6x36w PL vs 4x39w T5 HO

[AnA]

I have a 4x2x2ft tank. I am considering to change my current 6x36w PL to 4x39w T5. Wondering the reflector for the T5 lighting set sell in NA with only 2x39w T5 is good? That is, if I use 2 of this 2x39w T5 (which is 4x39w); will it be the same as using 6x36w PL? Please advise.

The reason for this is to reduce the heat and total wattage use when using 4xT5 as compare to 6xPL for my case. Actually, I do not need to have stronger light. As long as the same as my current 6x36w PL it already serve my purpose well. Understand the reflector play a part in the T5 design, if it reflects well, it should outperform PL. Please correct me if I am wrong. Thanks.

[BFG]

I should think 4 x 54w is ideal.

[AnA]

Thanks BFG, but my tank is only 4ft and 54W housing cannot fit well. Thus only choice is 39w...the housing is about 1 inch shorter than 4ft.

[valice]

That's strange. 54W tubing is meant for 4ft long, while 39W is 3ft long. Unless light set you are looking at is weird-sized?

Which light set you are aiming for? Got individual reflectors?

[AnA]

You are right valice. The tube itself of 54w is 1149mm and 39w is about 840mm. Add the housing, it cannot fit my tank as my tank has the top wooden frame. Anyway, will confirm the housing dimensions with NA again. As for which light set; I have yet to go down to NA. I only got the info from my Bro. Will check with NA soon.

That's strange. 54W tubing is meant for 4ft long, while 39W is 3ft long. Unless light set you are looking at is weird-sized?

Which light set you are aiming for? Got individual reflectors?

[AnA]

Went to NA and confirm that the 54w housing is too long for my 4ft tank. Guess got to DIY using air-con trucking? Will see how it goes.

[valice]

Using air-con trucking is good as it allows you to use parabolic reflectors and also hide your ballast inside the trunking.

[DE Lightings]

some pics of a 54watts fixture on a 4ft tank.....it should fit nicely and u should get the 54watts instead of 39watts.

http://www.delightings.com/index.cfm?GPID=19

[AnA]

Keen to DIY soon. Could anyone advise what is the total length from one end to the next of the waterproof endcaps (clips on type) with the 54w tubes installed? Thanks.