Things You'll Need
- Plywood, 5/8 inch
- White paint
- Aquarium light rods
- Bulb clips (2 to 4 per light rod)
- Pre-wired waterproof end caps
- 4 ceiling hooks
- 2 chains
Instructions
Choose light rods that match the length of your tank. Depending on your aquarium's dimensions and needs, you may need to purchase multiple light rods.
Cut a board out of the 5/8 inch plywood that matches the length and width of the top of your aquarium.
Screw two hooks into the ceiling. These will be used to hold the chain that connects to your fixture, so note how far apart you've spaced them.
Screw two hooks into the top of the board. They should be the exact same width apart as the two hooks on the ceiling.
Paint the underside of the board white (the part that will hold the lights and face the water) to maximize light reflection. Apply a varnish or paint to the sides and top if desired.
Attach bulb clips to the underside of the board to support your light rods. You should need between two and four clips per light rod.
Fasten light bulbs to the bulb clips and attach prewired waterproof end caps to light bulbs.
Attach chains securely to the hooks on top of the board, and hook the other ends of the chains to the hooks on the ceiling.