Watt/Gallon rule and Energy Saving Light

[aquaticlover]

I am confused by the watt/gallon rule and energy saving light. Suppose I have 15 gallons tank and if I apply 2 watt/gallon rule, I need 30Watt light. Now confusion part comes here: Suppose some energy saving light says 15Watt of their energy saving light is equivalent to 30 Watt of not enery save light. So in that case, should I buy 2x15W energy save light or 1x15W energy save light? please kindly advise!!!

[|squee|]

There are energy saving flourescent tubes now?

Get 1x15W, if you find that it's not enough, get another one.

[aquaticlover]

Some people say "2x54W T5 lighting is the equivalent of a 200W metal halide". I don't know it is true or not. but if this is true and my tank needs 200W, i need to use only 2x54W = 108W of T5 lighting. Is that correct?

[tawauboy]

non energy saving bulbs refers to incandescent bulbs. generally, watts/gallon lighting guide for planted tanks are based on fluorescent light. so if your calculation calls for 30w, get enough tubes/bulbs to provide 30w.

[aquaticlover]

ok, i got the point. thank you guys