[CUBLUEJAY]

I recently purchased 2 15W 18" coralife 50/50 bulbs for my All-Glass Aquarium fixtures on my 55g tank. They are the kind with 2 fixtures and a center brace. It is the first time I have replaced the bulbs. The problem is that the bulbs didn't fit quite right and wouldn't hold a solid connection resulting in a constant flickering of the light. Also, it was very hard to twist the bulbs into place. It appeared the new bulbs were maybe just 1mm too long or the prongs were not aligned quite right. The other bulbs I had in there fit fine.

Has anyone ever experienced this with their bulbs (ie some don't fit quite right)? Either Coralife or other brands? Maybe I just got 2 defective bults? I am just wondering if it is my fixtures or the bulbs themselves?

Thanks,
Jared

 

[CUBLUEJAY]

Anyone else have this problem?

 

[BANANAHANDS]

I have the same kind of dual hood setup on my 50g show(same footprint as a 55). Are you sure you got the right diameter of bulb? you may have picked up t-12 bulbs. the fixtures are t-8 fixtures. I forget what the "t" stands for but the bigger the number the thicker diameter of bulb.
I was surprised that the hoods are t-8. Its much easier to find t-12 bulbs such as 50/50 and actinic.
Compare you new bulbs to the old if you have them and I'm guessing the new ones will be bigger around.
I've decided I'm just going to save up and get a new light fixture. I don't like how there are dark spots in the center and in the corner because of the short single bulbs.
I'm thinking about these http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+3733+16770&pcatid=16770
They are $124.99 for the 48", which is what we both would need, or should get. Thats not bad at all considering the light will be much better, they are t-5 bulbs so they use less power, its one power cord rather than two, the dual light design allows you to mix and match bulbs and you can just completely do away with the cheap hoods that came with the tank. Besides, those new bulbs cost around $15 dollars each. so thats $30 you could spend toward the light fixture, it comes with the bulbs. :thumb:

I sound like a commercial, I think I'm trying to convince myself more than you. :lol:

 

[CUBLUEJAY]

Thanks for the reply. I too was contemplating just getting a new fixture since these aren't the greatest. I think I will go the DIY shoplight, paint it black route though. But in response to your question, surprisingly the bulbs are the correct size they just don't seem to fit quite right.

If anyone else has had this problem let me know.

Jared