Yet another lighting quesdtion *sigh*

[jgolden]

Hey all.

I'm entertaining the idea of replacing the VHOs in my 150G setup with either CF or T5 (likely along the DITY route), partially because of the energy consumption factor, but also because the tank is 60" long, and the VHOs are only 48". (Setup is currently freshwater, with med-level plants at present. WPG is currently ~ 3.7 WPG).

Q: If I currently have 5 (X 48") VHO, what would give me the equivalent lumens / energy in T5 or CF (either in 2X30" or 1X60" lengths).

Q: Which is better - CF or T5, or are the two terms interchangeable?

TIA

[BigDaddy]

I would go with T5 before CF just because they are a linear bulb and you can fit quite a few in a smaller footprint than you could with CF bulbs...