How to Wire Reef Lighting

Reef fish and invertebrate animals require the correct intensity and spectrum of light in order to thrive. Compact fluorescent tubes provide an intense light that is suitable for photosynthesis by corals and anemones. Compact fluorescent tubes do not give off heat, as in the case of metal halides and are relatively easy to wire. These U-shaped fluorescent lights are also neither as expensive as metal halide bulbs nor as heavy, and can easily be housed in the aquarium's canopy. By combining the white and actinic, or blue compact fluorescent, the hobbyist is assured of a natural light spectrum.

Things You'll Need

  • 2 compact fluorescent (24 watt) screw-in bulbs (including built in ballasts)
  • 2 socket adapters
  • 1 extension cord with opposing sockets
  • 1 300 ml tube non-toxic 100 percent silicone sealant
  • Electrical timer
  • Drill
  • Wood bits
  • Aquarium canopy
  • Glass "splash" pane
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the plug from the end of the electrical extension cord. Drill a 1-inch hole from the outside of the canopy (through which the electrical extension cord will be fed).

    • 2

      Place the extension cord inside the (upturned) canopy and "feed" the loose end (from which the plug was removed) through the 1-inch hole. Pull the cord through until the unit with the opposing sockets is in the middle of the canopy (lengthwise). Push the cord to the side.

    • 3

      Squeeze a continuous bead of non-toxic 100 percent silicone from the 1-inch hole to the middle of the canopy (inside). Pick the cord up and push it gently into the silicone.

    • 4

      Secure (with silicone) the opposing socket unit such that the sockets are free to accept the compact lights. Leave the cord to dry for at least 24 hours.

    • 5

      Screw one of the compact fluorescent tubes into a socket adapter. Repeat with the second compact fluorescent tube.

    • 6

      Plug a socket adapter into one socket of the extension cord. Repeat with the second adapter.

    • 7

      Replace the three-pin plug (onto the free end of the extension cord). Return the glass "splash" pane to the aquarium. Return the canopy to the aquarium.

    • 8

      Plug the extension cable into an electrical timer and set the timer to the "on" position from 08:00 to 20:00. Plug the electrical timer into a (wall) power source and switch it on.