How to Replace Fluorescent Covers

Fluorescent lights make an excellent lighting option for fish tanks due to the light's ability to distribute light evenly, stay cool and save energy. Fish tank covers sometimes come with built-in lights. Other times, the light fixture is a separate piece that sits on top of the tank with a light cover over the bulbs. The cover is important because it keeps water away from the light bulbs and prevents anything from falling into the tank.

Instructions

  1. Replace All in One Covers

    • 1

      Determine if your fish tank has a one piece cover with lighting attached or a separate removable light fixture. If it has a removable light fixture, skip to Section 2.
      Turn off the light and disconnect the power supply from the wall outlet.

    • 2

      Lift the tank cover up and away from the fish tank being careful not to let the power supply cord fall into the water. Go to a pet or aquarium store and purchase a new cover. Purchase one with a fluorescent light fixture, which is more energy efficient and lasts longer than incandescent light bulbs. Make sure the size matches the size of the old one and the dimensions of the fish tank top.

    • 3

      Install a fluorescent light bulb into the cover. GE makes special "Plant and Aquarium" fluorescent tubes designed specifically for fish tanks. Carefully lower the cover onto the top of the fish tank. Plug in the power supply.

    Replace Separate Light Fixture

    • 4

      Unplug the power to the light after turning it off. Remove the entire tank cover assembly up and off of the top of the tank.

    • 5

      Locate clips or screws holding the plastic or glass bulb cover that is on the underside of the light fixture. You may need to separate the lighting apparatus from the rest of the cover.

    • 6

      Slide the cover out from one side. One side should have a slit where the cover can slide out. Purchase a cover from an aquarium store making sure it is the same size as the original cover.

    • 7

      Replace the cover making sure it is fully in place. Reattach the lighting assembly to the rest of the tank cover if needed. Slowly lower the entire setup back onto the top of the tank. The light should be in the back of the tank.