DIY Vinyl Gutter Aquarium Light Fixture

A display light is an essential part of any aquarium, but finding a light that fits your aquarium exactly, and at a low price, can be a challenge. Lowly vinyl rain gutter and under-cabinet lighting come to the rescue. The ready-made fixtures typically used above kitchen countertops can be had in almost infinite sizes, types and prices. Gutter can be cut to any size you want. The total price depends on how fancy your light is, but in any case, it falls far below commercial offerings.

Things You'll Need

  • Corded under-cabinet xenon light fixture
  • 10-foot vinyl gutter
  • Ruler
  • Scratch awl
  • Hacksaw or Dremel tool with saw blade
  • Drill with 1/8-inch bit
  • 2 1/2-inch number 8 Phillips-head bolts with nuts
  • 2 1/2-inch washers
  • Needle-nose pliers
  • No. 2 Phillips-head screwdriver
  • Bolt flush-cutter
  • Solvent-weld gutter vinyl adhesive
  • 2 vinyl gutter end caps
  • Brush-on white appliance touch-up paint or self-stick contact paper
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Instructions

    • 1

      Lay the light fixture on its back inside the gutter, 1 1/8 inches from the end of the gutter. At 1 1/8 inches from the other end of the light fixture, scribe a line with the awl and ruler to mark where you will cut the gutter to size.

    • 2

      Cut the gutter at the scribe line, using the hacksaw or Dremel tool.

    • 3

      Pop the fixture lens off and remove the lamp to gain access to the mounting holes at the back of the fixtures. Lay the fixture in the position inside the gutter piece, centered perfectly between the ends. Mark spots on the gutter through the fixture mounting holes, using the awl.

    • 4

      Drill holes through the gutter at the marks. From the inside of the fixture, insert bolts through the mounting holes and through the drilled holes on the gutter. Install washers and nuts over the bolt tips. Hold nuts in place while tightening bolts with the screwdriver.

    • 5

      Reinstall the lamp and lens in the fixture. Turn the assembly over and cut bolt stubs with the flush cutter.

    • 6

      Turn the assembly over and lay a 1/8-inch bead of adhesive one inch from each end of the gutter piece. Slide on the vinyl end caps and snap them into place. Let the adhesive dry.

    • 7

      Cover the nut and washer with touch-up paint or use vinyl contact paper to cover the back of the entire assembly between the end caps.

    • 8

      Turn on the light and place the fixture over a transparent aquarium cover.