UV sheild

[Rob Top]

At one point I read that ALL MH bubls need a uv sheild. Then recently I read that only DE bulbs do. SO is it true that regular twis bulbs do not need UV sheild, and if so is it only certain manufactures if so which ones?
Thanks

 

[FragMaster]

No mogul based screw in bulbs need to be UV shielded. ALL DE bulbs need to be sheilded.

 

[johnfluevogs]

This may be a dumb question but what effect does not haveing a uv sheild have on the fish and coral in a tank?

Second, does a glass top for an aquarium work as a uv sheild?

 

[johnfluevogs]

This may be a dumb question but what effect does not haveing a uv sheild have on the fish and coral in a tank?

Second, does a glass top for an aquarium work as a uv sheild?

 

[Unarce]

It is said that mogul-based bulbs do not require a glass shield, because they are already encased in a glass envelope. I shield mine anyway, to preserve the bulb and reflector, and to also prevent accidents.

The UV blocking is a standard property of glass, so the glass top will work. The thickness does determine how much UV-A and UV-B is blocked. I've used 3/16" and 1/4". You'll want tempered glass, which will handle the heat a lot better.

Using double-end bulbs without a shield can burn your corals and damage the eyes of your inhabitants, as well as your own.

 

[FragMaster]

In a big big way. :wink: