Many lovers of aquarium use LED lighting aquarium, with their own hands assembled, because one sunlight There are few different tropical fish, even if their reservoir is located on the window. And if it is standing at the inner wall, then the light is disastrously lacking.
Why in aquarium need light
One of the most fascinating, impressive decorations of the modern interior is aquarium, but it is not possible without backlighting. A good LED lamp for aquarium with your own hands is not so difficult.
The correct light design of the reservoir will make it one of the elements of the additional lighting of the apartment. Light is a fundamental factor for enhancing growth, reproduction and development of various water aquarium plants.
People loving aquarism know that any ecosystem arising at the depths is quite good. It forms their connections between microscopic organisms, aquatic plants and vivid animals from the tropics.
Aquarium fish - the last and most importantly such a small ecosystem, which for normal functioning requires additional light in the aquarium. Without a certain number of photons of light, all greens are degraded, swelling, it will not multiply with tanks and stalling.
Due to the cessation of the photosynthesis process, the plants will not be able to recycle carbon dioxide and will not receive normal nutrition.
Without this, they will not allocate oxygen into water, which is necessary for the livelihood of microorganisms and the respiration of fish through the gills.
The entire mini-reservoir should be enriched with this gas and is well lit by various sources of light, because some inhabitants of the domestic water area (violet plants, for example), cannot absorb the whole spectrum, but only its small part is satisfied.
Remember! It is not recommended to include lamps in the summer of more than 10 hours / day. In winter, this time can be increased to 12 hours / day. Be sure to turn the light at night for 6-8 hours. Fishes also need rest and a certain period of time on deep sleep.
Why LEDs light better
Because of the huge variety of livestock and greens in the reservoir, it is necessary to "adapt" and apply it is sometimes not alone to save all species, but immediately several various sources Lights with which you can stretch the duration of the day.
Some aquarists use spotlights on LEDs, and others prefer conventional lamps. Third put halogens or good luminescent lamps, and the fourth choose LED tapes in the aquarium.
In theory, a normal light source:
- It should emit rays immediately in many spectral ranges so that all plants (and lower, and higher) grow and have not bloomed. If you use, for example, conventional lamps that have only yellow spectrum, then higher plants can fade, and because of this, water will quickly bloom.
- Do not warm the water. The lamp mounted in close proximity to any domestic water area, at least a little, but heats it. Many fish do not tolerate the increase in ambient temperature by more than 2 ° C and may die.
Consider all the options and find out what lamps it is more profitable to use:
- Halogens are a good and economical source of light flux. They shine perfectly and do not distinguish many heat. But they are more expensive than ordinary.
- A simple light bulb is a popular type of mini-reservoir lighting. But it gives only yellow light that is unacceptable for higher plants. Such a lamp has a large heat transfer, and with its close location to an aquarium, living creatures may die due to improper temperature regime. To eliminate heating, you can apply ice by throwing it into water in cellophane bags.
- Fluorescent samples were most popular in aquarist environment. They are economical, durable, have a wide range and scattered light. A total pair of such lamps can completely illuminate 400 liters with reservoirs. The variable spectrum depends on the gas located in them inside. But they are dangerous due to the presence of mercury vapor in the cylinder.
- LED lamps for aquarium with plants - the best option. Their low heat transfer and high economy is known to everyone. They are environmentally friendly and harmless to any inhabitant homemade depths. Their spectrum is unlimited.
- LED tape - a little worse than the previous version. Sometimes you have to look for a suitable range for a long time. Many tapes have a low light output, and if there is no bright in stock, it has to increase their number.
Pros and Cons LED Lights
Lighting in aquarium LED lamps took the first positions with the arrival of these lamps and their use in everyday life. And all because of the excellent characteristics that immediately displaced all the former versions of the bulbs.
Their main advantages:
- Efficiency. The ratio of energy consumption to high brightness is equal to or exceeds other samples.
- The value is average - below some types of lamps of another type.
- In relation to efficiency and heat transfer, they are inferior only to sources with luminescent glow that can remain cold a few days in a row. For the entire working cycle of 10 h / day, they heat up very little and do not affect the infrastructure of the water area.
- Strength. SDL - LED lamps for aquarium with plants - are not afraid of the effects of different kinds. They are not fighting, they do not break the spiral (it is simply no).
- The term of work of the most expensive options reaches 5 years if they are properly used.
- The range of spectrum is huge and favorable for the flora and fauna of the reservoir. Since there is a lot of LEDs in such a lamp, you can put in several multi-colored sources. Thus, all the necessary spectra can be combined in one lamp.
- Safety. This parameter is explained by the low potential necessary for working SDL, and high moisture protection, which reduces the likelihood of fire.
- Ecology. In the production of SDLs, toxic substances are not used, and the absence of ultraviolet radiation and infrared luminescence has a positive effect on the inhabitants of the depths.
The main minuses of the SDL are considered a relatively high price, because to include some SDPs and tapes in the network 220 V, it is necessary to purchase a power supply or dimmer, and these are additional spending.
You can do without BP, but then you need to buy 12-volt SDLs and connect them to the battery. It has its advantages. In the absence of current in the network, your favorites will be lit.
Little lights of the inhabitants of the home reservoir
Homemade backlight for aquarium from LEDs pleases the eye always. Fish playing in her rays, the plants are rapidly blooming. But all this with normal lighting, desirable from top to front. Otherwise, everything happens differently, and troubles are possible.
If the LED lamps into the aquarium are incorrect, the plants begin to change, fade, the water is little blooming, green.
Lack of light (incorrect calculation) provokes some types of plants. For example, the growth of green single-cell algae is accelerated.
An excess of highlighting (for example, strong spotlights) leads to another trouble: the ecobalance is disturbed, water becomes muddy and dirty, the amount of oxygen is not enough in it. Fish at the same time float almost on the surface and cannot be sacrificed, and the greens will quiet.
How to find out how correctly the LED lighting for the aquarium do it yourself? This indicates the inner decor of the reservoir. If, after 60-90 days, the fish moves within the limits of the entire volume, the water is transparent, the plants will not fill, the backlight is ideal.
Illuminated power and its spectral range
It is necessary to know how to choose a LED spotlight for power or what to use the LED tape so that the water is normally illuminated, and its inhabitants were satisfied.
Experienced aquarists advise on making lamps based on the requirements - 0.5 W / l. But this is true for the illumination of the old type.
To identify the number of LEDs in the network, complex recalculation formulas and various online calculators are given.
The calculation of the SDL is not as folded as it seems. The aquarists argue that the power of the SDL should not exceed 1-2 W, but it is incorrect, because the aquariums are different and highlighting with a lot of reservoir.
Yes, the uniform backlight of the aquarium LEDs sometimes harms the inhabitants. Don representatives love shadow, and plants stretch into a light zone. Fish float everywhere and know themselves where they are comfortable at the moment - on the surface or between the roots in the tank.
Usually used with a total of 80-100 W for 200 liters. People with prosperity sometimes have mini-reservoirs of 20 thousand liters. For a large volume, there are several dozen tapes with 30-40 mini-sources (0.2 W each), because it is necessary to light everything from top to bottom.
Little to have aquarium - it is necessary to correctly illuminate it. Newly minted aquarists for beauty add yellow, green and blue spotlights or diode lamps for aquarium that burn constantly. It is spectacular only for "Showers". Such experiments are unnatural for the ecosystem.
If you put such LEDs into an aquarium, then unacceptable spectra will coal fish, it will affect the process of photosynthesis.
Such a "disco", for example, from the LED tape harms the depth representatives - a detriment for their health.
So what better to choose colors? The correct lighting of the aquarium LED ribbon has its own criteria. The range of the spectrum of such a backlight, as recommended by all experts in this area, should be a blue-purple or reddish-orange. Excellent result gives a combination of lamps of different types. For example, using LED and fluorescent light sources for uniform illumination, you can create a cozy, ecologically comfortable atmosphere for all living creatures and plants.
Where to install lighting
The homemade reservoir must organically fit into the overall design. It can be freely mounted in a servant, wall and other cabinet furniture. And according to the instructions, it is necessary to put the lamps in front of the front, and not behind the back wall, as novice aquarists do.
Various homemade and industrial buttons with aquariums in which multicolored inhabitants are swimming perfectly. Beautiful looks and stands-stands. The usual backlight is performed in the form of a cover on the pond, which opens when feeding fish.
Remember the following:
- When performing lighting over mini-reservoir in the cabinet, the aquarium must be covered with plywood, glass or other material, in order to avoid contact with anything into the water.
- It is possible to significantly reduce the consumption of electricity, if you apply the photoelele, the timer and the thermostat.
These devices are automatic and comfortable for too busy people. They are just necessary for livestock:
- photorele turns off the light when the evening comes outside;
- the thermaller dealers the system when lamps or water are heated;
- the timer connects to the lamps (to all or to the part) and allows you to turn off the light after a certain time.
It is important for many fish and plants, especially if you have several mini-water areas. Fish and plants from the tropics need warm water and long-term lighting, and cold-blooded more good and they do not need so much light.
How to make LED lighting
It is desirable to combine with luminescent universal luminaires such as Luba - their spectrum is the best for water bodies and their inhabitants. Both sources are strengthened in the box, the bottom and the walls of which are glued to the foil for better light reflection.
First method
If your home for fish closes with a lid, then neon lights Aquarium with your own hands is performed on it. This is the best place for additional light sources. The LED ribbon is strengthened around the perimeter of your cover from the inside.
Use a tape with self-adhesive base, flooded with plastic so that water does not penetrate.
Protection is removed from the base, and the LEDs are strengthened under the lid. All this will evenly illuminate the thickness of the water and give the most optimal spectrum.
The LED backlight for aquarium does not pretend independence, but is used as an additional, decorative light with other types of lamps. Isolate wires (if their connection is made under the lid) better silicone for aquariums.
Second way
The full-fledged collection of aquarium LED lamps of sufficient strength is performed at the calculation of the power of 120 W per 200-250 liters, if the water is thickly populated by vegetation. These are 40 LED 3-watt point light sources of 270 lm each.
The overall level of illumination will reach 10,800 lm, which is sufficient for the above volume.
The main thing is not to overdo and watch carefully for the state of the ecosystem. With a rapid growth of greenery, it is necessary to turn off part of the diodes or reduce their brightness.
The cost of the structure may vary, because you can buy power supplies and LEDs in the usual store or order on the World Wide Network in the Chinese. The price of equal quality devices sometimes differ several times.
For assembly independent option Backlights will be needed:
- set SDL;
- plastic 100 mm chute - 2.5 m;
- the wire is soft - up to 3 m;
- 12-volt power supply (for example, from a computer);
- 4-6 12-volt computer coolers, for cooling lamps;
- milling cutter 48 mm;
- 40 connectors and nests for LEDs.
On the groove we make a markup along the length of the aquarium and cutting off 2 pieces. In their bottoms drill on 20 holes. We try to fulfill them in a checker order. In the holes, we strengthen the lamp and connect them in parallel.
Consider if there are 12-volt lamps, connect them to the power unit, if 220 V is through the switch to the network.
Couplers connect through the thermal parallel to the power supply. They will turn on if the temperature of the lamp will be high.
If you are not able to do this yourself, consult an electrician or a knowledgeable friend.
The functioning of any aquarium directly depends on the level of its illumination. When choosing a type of lighting for any aquarium, its depth, volume and type of reservoir, population are taken into account. The optimal option for hydrobionts is LED lamps that allow you to easily select the desired color mode, ensure the most suitable conditions for plants and fish.
In this article:
Benefits LED lighting
LED lighting for aquarium in contrast to luminescent has a multitude of advantages. The LED lamp can be easily assembled with their own hands, it is characterized by economical energy consumption, while it is possible to adjust the spectrum and color temperature using special controllers.
Among the advantages of lighting ice should be highlighted:
- large selection of constructive performance of lamps;
- economical consumption of electricity;
- excellent indicators and stability of light flux, spectrum;
- environmental friendliness;
- excellent protection of the lamp from mechanical influences, you can install lamps resistant to spraying or wetting.
LED lighting aquarium
You can not pay attention to the fact that the LED panels and lamps for aquariums can be collected with their own hands, while the cost of the finished product will be much smaller than the factory.
Selection of LEDs for aquarium
When choosing a type of fixture, many parameters must be taken into account. This applies to the size of an aquarium, its type, reference requirements and methods of lamps. You can use ice ribbons, spotlights or lamps to work, calculating their power and quantity, given the standards and requirements for the organization of light for tanks of various types. For example, for herbalists, a bright light for photosynthesis will be required, for some species of fish, a daily change of the level of illumination is required.
LED spotlights
When organizing the right light in an open-type aquarium, you can use LED spotlights. Such lamps give a very bright light that easily pulls out to the bottom even in the deepest tanks. But for large Dutch aquariums requires a minimum of two or three lamps by 50 W each. For conventional tanks per 100 liters, there are enough two searchlights of 25 W.
The color depends on the purpose of the lamp - for conventional daylight lighting, white lamps are used, blue spotlights are used for night with imitation of the lunar light. It should be positioned so that they evenly illuminated all the container, not leaving dark corners.
LED lamp
The most common option for the aquarium is the ice lamp. They are used for small aquariums with a capacity of up to 50 liters, providing a bright, stable light necessary for fish and plants. For large tanks, it is better to choose large panels with several lamps, suspended systems or lamps mounted on brackets.
Manufacturers are offered various options Such lamps are the most famous are systems from Aqualighter, intended for marine or freshwater aquariums. it multifunctional models With the ability to change the color temperature, the daily change of color, pre-installed modes. Such systems can be based on the design of its own lighting system.
LED ribbons
LED tape lighting Not so long ago was used only for small aquariums, but today the similar method is suitable for large tanks with a capacity of 200 liters. But when choosing, you should give preference to ribbons with high power, for example, SMD 3528 for a large aquarium are not suitable. Preference is better to give SMD 5050, SMD 5730 and another with an emission of 18 lm for each diode. But when planning independently, the manufacture of the luminaire should immediately prefer the cooling system.
Features of the choice of lighting
When choosing backlighting for aquariums, it is important to consider the following parameters:
- capacity content, view of the inhabitants and plants in the aquarium;
- accounting for standard parameters (the minimum value is 0.5 W per liter);
- the selection of the LED lamp (already ready or collected with their own hands "from scratch");
- constructive execution, which depends on the dimensions and depth of the tank (spotlights, rules, lamps on brackets or suspensions);
- equipment kit (lighting controllers, timers, controllers for daily change in color and spectrum);
- features of operation (protected from moisture or ordinary splashes).
LED backlight with air sprayer
There is a large selection of already ready-made lamps of famous brands. When purchasing it is recommended to give preference to them, since cheap Chinese do not always comply with the stated requirements, and this can lead to a disease of the inhabitants of the aquarium and overgrow it with algae walls.
Features of the calculation of the lamp for aquarium
Holding the level of illumination for aquarium, it is necessary to take into account the adopted standards and features of the tanks. It is believed that 0.5 watts of power and 40 lm brightness of the light flux are required per liter of water. But for aquariums of various types, these indicators may vary, for example, for very deep tanks, the parameters are multiplied by 2.
For herbalists with rare plants and for Dutch aquariums, it is necessary to ensure the luminous flux at the level of 60 lm and more at 0.8-1 watts per liter. When planning the lighting of elongated, deep aquarium standards can be different. In any case, it is necessary to approach the choice of the lamp individually.
LED lamp for aquarium collar aqualighter 2 22 W
It should be remembered that for every 10 cm depth the level of the light stream decreases at least 50%. Types of plants, requirements for oxygen content and many other parameters are taken into account. It is important to remember that photosynthesis for plants in saturation takes only at the level of lighting from 400 Umol / (M2 * S), that is, the light should be intense. An important factor is the presence of soil plants, anabias and others.
We collect the lamp do it yourself
When installing the lighting system for aquarium with plants, it is necessary to immediately determine the variant of the lamp. The most popular and most simple is the use of ice ribbons, for example, a five-meter ribbon with SMD 5050 diodes, which is 0.2 W.
The tape is attached to the aquarium lid in the form of a snake, while the direction may be different, but it is very important to observe the same density of LEDs. Fix the lamp should be fixed using silicone glue, the starting device and the power supply must be positioned only from the outside to ensure the right heat exchange and prevent moisture from entering them.
The second method is more difficult, it requires certain skills, but it is worth it. For this, instead of a standard lid over the aquarium, a diamond or a rectangular lamp is arranged, providing lighting with a brightness of 10,000 lm and a capacity of 120 W. Such a lamp is enough for aquarium with a volume of 200-300 liters.
The technical characteristics of such a lamp will not give way to the ready-made factory, but their value will be much lower. For the assembly it will take about 40 ice lamps of 3 W each, color - white, blue, red, with green, you need to be careful, as it can provoke accelerated algae growth. Exclude green diodes will be completely incorrect, but constant balance of balance is required to eliminate the growth of the unfavorable environment.
Lama is best to take foreign production of such brands like Osram and Philips, although Era, Feron, Gauss are perfectly suitable. To assemble the lamp for aquarium with a volume of 200-300 liters, you will need:
- lED tape, ice lamps;
- plastic chute with 2 meters long and 10 cm wide (the length will depend on the dimensions of the aquarium itself);
- 12V power supply, there is the ability to connect lighting to a stationary computer;
- wire with a cross section of 1.5 mm;
- air conditioning for 6-12 V;
- lAMP connectors (40 pieces, by number of lamps, for tape connectors are not needed);
- the tool for the slit holes by 48 mm.
Backlight for Aquarium from LED Tape
You need to start with the preparation of the foundation - in plastic design Two shutters and holes in a checkerboard are cut. LEDs will be inserted into these holes that are very important to securely secure. All lamps are connected by a soft wire, then connected to the power supply. The fan is placed on the heated area from the outer part of the structure.
If only white lamps are used for the lamp, then the tape must take blue to imitate the moonlight. It is attached on the back wall, it is possible to include it only at night or in combination with white light, ensuring the coverage of the required spectrum.
In general, making the calculation of LED lamps, it is necessary to focus on the following indicators - 0.5 W per liter of water, if the aquarium is very deep, then the lamp is taken on the liter. Also taken into account the purpose of the aquarium, for example, for a herbal, it is necessary bright, good lighting, without which photosynthesis will be simply impossible.
In addition, choosing lighting, we must take into account the spectrum and color temperature. For plants and inhabitants of aquarium of different species, they can be completely different. The level of illumination should be uniform, a daily change of light is necessary to ensure the health of your pets.
Conclusion
LED lamps for aquariums gradually displacing fluorescent lamps as more economical and efficient. The life of their operation is much larger, and the consumption of electricity is lower, there is also an opportunity independent installation of different types lamps.
Aquarium lighting with your own hands
lED LED spotlights in aquarium
Consider all questions in order:
- What is mixed lighting, why is it necessary?
- Why exactly a sd spotlight?
- Why exactly in the lid?
- Why do you need a T5 lamp?
- Selection of a SD spotlight?
- What do you need to create lighting with your own hands?
- The process of assembling aquarium lighting on its own.
- How much is it?
- Is it worth bothering? What is the effect?
What is mixed lighting, why is it necessary?
Mixed lighting - This is a combination of different light sources. A good example of this lighting is the ADA SOLAR I lamp, where Takashi Amano Combines the MH-HQI 150Vatt metal-halide spotlight with two lamps LL T5 36 W.
Agree, the sun does not shine on 24 hours a day, the maximum intensity of sunlight is observed only during the day, at lunchtime. The rest of the time the sun either dates back, or it comes, the lighting intensity gradually increases, and then decreases.
Approximately the same effect can be achieved in the presence of a mixed lamp (lighting), when it is first turned on (sunrise), then a searchlight (zenith) is added to 3-4 hours, and then only LL T5 is operated again.
The advantages of such lighting are understandable:
1. Aquarium plants get the most daylight. Installed a certain rhythm.
2. Warning of the algae flash. Powerful, long, and the more incorrect illumination of the direct path to the algae flash. It is only necessary to create the peak of lighting activity, and not shine, "burn out" aquarium 12 hours a day.
3. At the same time, the presence of powerful, directional and high-quality lighting, in sufficient quantity - This is the key to success!
Why is the LED LED-spotlight?
Why exactly in the lid?
The only significant disadvantage of the metal malogen lamp is that it is very heated !!! Alas, it is possible to use such lighting only in open aquariums (without a cover), at least 30 cm. From the surface of the water, using the suspension or the stoic for the lamp.
When the question was resolved about what lighting will be in our aquarium, I proceeded from the fact that the aquarium would be closed (with a lid). First, I wanted my spouse \u003d), secondly, I agreed with her that the aquarium with a lid looks at home, as it is more comfortable, plus the houses "roam" cats that every evening look "Aquatevizor", and all Taki House is not an exhibition center and not a laboratory of ADA ... Metal halogen sofa in the house is a bust! The right, here each decides itself ... My opinion is not a dogma.
So, an analogue of the metal acgrade projector is LED. I note at once the word "analogue" in quotes ... however, there is a significant difference. First, LED lighting, unlike MG discretely. Discreteness(from lat. Discretus - separated, intermittent) - property, opposability of continuity, interrupt. To explain on the fingers, below the photo example, as the solid and discrete spectrum looks like.
Thus, we see that the spectrum of LEDs is not the best. And the point here, not even in the peaks of red and blue, namely, the fact that the aquarium plants are at the very case, in the process of photosynthesis, the entire visible spectrum is absorbed, and he is inferior to SD.
What is the similarity of mg and sd? Why make it initially doing such "poor-quality" lighting? Answers to these questions will reveal the advantages of SD spotlights.
1. Like a metal acgrade spotlight, LED has directional lighting. That is, the efficiency of the LEDs is much higher than, for example, in luminescent lamps, effective application which is only possible with reflectors . If we spend the household language, then the SD and MG-spotlights "beat" in one direction, and not "spray" at all. It is this property that allows "punching" mg and SD-spotlights the deepest aquariums and water tights in 60 or more centimeters.
2. Unlike mg, the LED floodlight does not radiate excessive heat. Checked! From the front side, the SD spotlight does not heat at all, and the back is heated, but tolerant (tolerant for hand and plastic cover). Some aquarists advise you to put a cooler on the SD, for the heat dissipation, but so far even now, when on the street +36, I do not see in this need. Again, this is not a constant, everyone has its own specificity.
3. LED lighting is today the most economical lighting. You will save 3, 10 times on electricity.
4. An essential disadvantage of luminescent lamps is their flicker with a noticeable person with a frequency. In this connection, with prolonged effects of LL per person, his eyes get tired very quickly. LED sources are powered by a constant current, so there are no flicker.
5. Other Positive Moments SD: Safety (Work at low voltage, which is important for aquarium) and long service life (up to 100,000 hours).
Why do you need a T5 lamp?
From the fact that fluorescent lamps T5, better than T8, I think a lot already know, so I will not focus on this particular attention.
I applied LL T5 in my case, first, to create mixed lighting, and secondly, to replenish the discreteness of the LED spectrum.
Namely, the so-called lamp "FUL Spectrum" was applied.
Fluorescent lamp for aquarium designed to provide intensive lighting. JBL Solar Ultra Color T5 lamp has an increased power compared to standard T8 lamps and has a full range of colors.
When using the JBL Solar Ultra Color lamp in the aquarium, you will get enhancing the transfer of red and blue flowers Aquarium fish and other inhabitants of the aquarium.
Having an increased proportion of red and blue colors in the spectrum, the JBL Solar Ultra Color aquarium lamp stimulates the synthesis of chlorophylls, which in turn accelerates the photosynthesis process.
Selection of a sd spotlight
The choice and acquisition of the LED searchlight should be related to special scrupuls. This is a very important and expensive moment, not paying due attention to which, you can simply throw away the money to the wind.
Since on the fan fiction, in this matter I was a pioneer, I had to deduct a bunch of information, to revise the characteristics of various searchlights and LED panels, collect meager information on the forums and chat with the few experts of the LED.
And so, what conclusion was made! Per 100-110 liters. Aquarium, clean volume you need:
If the lid allows you to put three spotlights (less power), which will give you more confidence that the searchlights will not burn quickly. Alas, repair SD-spotlights are not subject to. Less powerful spotlights are less heated, respectively, risks are reduced. At the same time, the less Watt at the SD, the smaller its "punching" ability and its other characteristics too. In general, everything must be calculated and estimate.
2. Everyone knows that the LED lighting is much more powerful than the nominal. That is, the power of LEDs in watts to measure at least not correctly.
So I wondered about the question, and how much the watts then need to be on my aquarium. Believe sellers in the market, which say: "Multiply three daragas and there will be those real wats" - stupid! In general, I had to ride in this matter and find more clear information.
And the truth is quite simple, the lighting, in addition to Watt, has a lot of characteristics, including: Lumens- This is the amount of light emitted / emitted by the light source. The light source with a light flux in 1 lumen, which evenly illuminates any surface area 1 square meter, Creates on it (surfaces) Light 1 luxury.
An experimental way, aquarium players were found that for a good herbal, for the Dutch and Amanovsky aquarium, 50-70 lumens per liter of pure water volume are needed.
The task was solved and the choice of spotlights became extremely concrete - you need two spotlights so that in the amount of their lumens they were 50-70 lm / l.
3. And the last two important moment when choosing a SD spotlight is still: Spectrum and Celvin.
As it turned out, the spotlight was diverted with a variety: there were warm glow, cold glow, I came across even the searchlights on RGB (and for a long time, what it is such a thing))). But we need only one spotlight - with a spectrum as close to daylight. This SD has the most optimal characteristics.
Kelvin (K) - This is the color temperature of any light source. This is a measure of our impression on the color of this source of light. The content of aquarium plants is recommended from 6500 to 8000 K.
Note: This article was written in 2014. Since then, a lot of water has flowed. In the yard of 2017 And now there are no problems with LED spotlights and SD tapes. Moreover, the SD spotlights have become flat and compact. And as practice shows, they can be perfectly used in Aquapape, example:. Yes, of course, you can discuss for a long time and find fault in PAR SD searchlights, however, is a budget option that works great.
Note 2: Average Digital Lumen for a good herbalist 50-70 lm / l. Once, I ask you to take into account the individual specifics of its aquaruima: the height of the water column, planting density of plants, species features of a plant. That is, the above mentioned numbers is an exemplary landmark. If you have a dense, super-skype, you can safely accelerate up to 100 lm / l and 150 lm / l.
What do you need to create lighting with your own hands?
How much is it?
First, you will need skilled hands, without them. As well as tools: drill, electric logs, Bulgarian, other small tools (screwdrivers, keys, pliers, other). If you do not have a jigsaw or a grinder, do not despair. You just have to do everything with hands, such as with a hack or saw.
I "upgraded" the Aquarium cover TM "Nature" (plastic, with two built-in ll t8, ballast and starters), this is:
Acquired two sdi By 30W, TM "FERON" Model LL 730. Characteristics: Daylight 6500K, 2850 Lumens (by the way, 2 sd * 2850lm \u003d 5700lm / 110l. Valid \u003d 51.8lm / l).
Purchased Akvaalevsky electronic starter under LL T5. Such a choice was made in order to minimize the "drinking" of aquarium cover, the place under which and so on the weight of gold. R.S. This starter can be done by himself.
Socket - voltage relay.Need to safety and prevent voltage jumps. In such a socket, the voltage limits are set, after which the equipment is de-energized.
We also need:silicone sealant, fasteners (bolts, nuts, screws), screed holders for spotlights (preferably a stainless steel, so as not to rust), wires (two-housing and three-core), are needed to connect spotlights, coolers, fork under the spotlight with grounding.
The process of assembling aquarium lighting.
The process of assembling and installing aquarium lighting with your own hands is different, since all the lids are different. I will describe your process.
1. First connect the cord and plug to searchlights. From the searchlight there is a three-in-room wire (with grounding), respectively, you need to attach the same wire to it. Do not listen, "smart sellers" in building supermarkets. When I bought the wire, I was told, they say: "You are ..... / censored /, freight spotlights." In general, believe only yourself and reliable information, and not "Special Mountains", which disassemble, perhaps, only in cheap, but spirits.
Here I will try in a nutshell to explain how to make a more or less decent lamp for your aquarium.
So:
The lamp must first be full-sized, i.e. covering all top Aquarium. This is necessary in order to:
- from the aquarium water is not so fast evaporated
- In the aquarium did not fall any extraneous trash
- Especially fat fish did not jump out of the aquarium
- Excess light did not hit the eye, and dissipated only by aquarium
In the absence of certain means, materials, skill or patience, finally, it is possible to be content and just a lamp entered into a reflector. But this, you see, went and primitively, at the beginning of the 80s. And now in the yard the third millennium! Fish will not forgive you such mockery. So, you have to be bred by courage and patience to hit the world and please the inhabitants of the aquarium more or less decent lighting.
So, I believe that the lamp for aquarium is best to do from plastic, although this is not an axiom. Just in my opinion, plastic has a number of advantages over wood and metal (I hope, no one is going to make a lamp from cardboard?), Namely:
- does not swell from moisture
- Do not rot
- not rust
- has higher electrical safety
- It is easier to be cleared of pollution and deposits of various salts and minerals
- Finally, it is easier to handle
I suppose I persuaded you, and make a lamp from anything other than plastic you will not think.
What plastic choose? The best "Polystyrene shockproof" is best. It is easily processed, easily sticks, does not shine, relatively inexpensive ... yes generally good plastic! It is usually produced in a sheet of different thickness and sometimes two colors: black and white. To have at least some idea of \u200b\u200bwhat kind of plastic is, open the refrigerator: the entire inner plastic cover is polystyrene. It glues with organic solvents, such as dichloroethane, chloroform, chloromethane. Oil, even acetone comes up, but he is too quickly evaporated. These chemicals in principle can be found in stores or on the market. It is more convenient to work with them by paying them into a one-time syringe with a needle, because All these adhesives are sufficiently liquid and do not require mixing with a chicken polystyrene, as they usually come when working with plexiglass. The fact is that the plexiglass dissolves significantly longer than polystyrene, and the listed adhesives are very volatile, i.e. quickly evaporate. Therefore, to give greater survivability in the open air, the adhesives are mixed with the plexiglass crumbling, which makes them thick, and therefore extends the evaporation process.
When working with a polystyrene there is no such need, because Polystyrene dissolves very easily. Single warning: All of the above adhesives are extremely toxic!
By and large, you can say right: this is poison
. Therefore, all the work on the gluing polystyrene must be carried out under the condition of good ventilation of the room and avoid hitting the glue on the skin, and even more so in the eyes, under the skin, in the mouth, nose, etc., because This can lead simply to death. For example, 10 ml of dichloroethane, taken inside, cause inevitable and painful death.
Scared?
Unfortunately this is the case.
Well, let's talk about something more pleasant. Actually, the design of the lamp you can come up with yourself or make an analogue somewhere already seen. I will only say that the "all-hand" lamp is not very convenient. It is much better to create a design consisting of a perimeter frame and several removable covers. For example, it looks like such a lamp approximately like this:
The perimeter frame for greater strength should be made two-layer, i.e. consisting of an internal bearing frame and an outer decorative. At the same time, the outer layer must perform over the inner a little up (in order to have a "bridgehead" in order to put the lids) and down, so that the protruding part overlap the ribbiness and the water mirror. In short, in the context, such a frame may look, for example, like this:
Borrow this type can be borne by foreign manufacturers - "Eheim","JUWEL"and domestic, such as LLC "ARG" .
In general, the design can be invented anyone. Here is some of them:
Climbing on any of them the cursor, you can see the photo of a larger size and read about the design of this type.
All the electrics, if you do not want to work it all the time and get health after lesion, it is better to take out the limits of the lamp (well, you can leave the lamps inside!). As a last resort, if there are some serious obstacles to this, you can place the filling and inside, but think about the reliable insulation from water in advance, including condensate.
A few words about this very filling:
A lot of tips, opinions and recommendations regarding the choice of type of lighting for aquarium. These are fluorescent lamps, and incandescent lamps, and energy-saving lamps, and even halogens ... But most opinions are reduced to the fact that even if the fluorescent lamps should prevail. That is, this type of lamps is most preferable. Moreover, the market is flooded with such lamps with different light spectrum, allowing you to choose the most appropriate type of lighting for each particular underwater landscape, taking into account the characteristics of the selection of fish and plants. And to start and maintaining fluorescent lamps, a simple, but rather cumbersome electrical system is necessary. There is, truth and more compact, the so-called "unpleasant" diagram of connecting the lamps, but also it takes some place. Moreover, as a rule, such unfortunate ballasts are not very reliable in the work. That's all you need to place somewhere, preferably away from the water.
To avoid possible trouble, if not going worse, on the ends of the lamps should be dressed hermetic tips, protecting the contacts of the contacts from contact with moisture. How do you organize it - I have no idea. I can suggest that various anthers, cuffs and other automotive rubber trifles can be completely good for some lamps, which you are in abundance, not only at the carport, but also in any auto parts store. However, there are also special "commissioning devices" with wires on which there are already sealed tips for lamps. This is how these devices look like that:
Just this whole requirement is a little money. And since you decided to do everything yourself, then why can I get it?
Another small, but useful advice:
In case you managed to get black polystyrene, you can stick to the inner surface of the cover reflective (mirror) film to increase light output. If the plastic is white, then do not bother: the reflective ability of this plastic is large enough. You can only worsen the case - in the aquarium there will be too much light. However, these are already questions of the selection of lighting ...
About decorative finish Lamp, I will not particularly heat up - taste, color ... You know. I just want to say that a self-adhesive decorative film "D-C-Fix" of German production has proven quite well. For living in St. Petersburg, the tip: in our city wider than all the sale of shopping "House Laverna" and "Maxida" has deployed all the products.
Another very important point:
If the edges of the lamp at least per millimeter are for the dimensions of the aquarium (which in most cases is inevitable), it is necessary to seal the places of connecting the lamp and aquarium. For example, glue the lamp with the same silicone sealant. It will save you from constant rubbing condensate droplets flowing from the luminaire covers.
No records found.
About the benefits of photosynthesis.
Key role in life underwater world Plays light energy. It contributes to the reproduction of the inhabitants and the development of plants. Without sufficient irradiation, they do not grow like that. Green algae pale, degrade.
However, the appearance of oxygen bubbles on plants confirms the rapid flow of photosynthesis, the extension of life. It is enhanced with an increase in the intensity of light energy. The reaction stems in the reservoirs of the cells of green plants. Located chlorophyll absorbs (catches) photons of blue and red light, and reflects other tones. With different radiation frequency and wavelength, measured in nanometers (N / M). Therefore, if this area occupies a range from 600 to 700 N / m, then it contributes to the most intensive growth of leaves and plants.
- Red and orange rays are the main, the decisive energy of photosynthesis.
- Purple and blue spectra create optimal conditions for its passage.
The concept of this process literally means: construction from light and chemical elements in water. Green plants Carbon dioxide is processed into nutrition required for the inhabitants.
For aquarium optimal lighting is the use of semiconductor devices - LEDs. Their radiation, approximate to the natural environment, has a positive effect on the development of flora and residents.
How to illuminate aquariums.
Aquarium lighting of incandescent lamps (l / n)
Having a yellow spectrum required for plants. Convals the development of algae and phytoplankton. This light is insufficient for some species, but the color of red and yellow fish is well. A very bright lamp negatively affects the development of leaf plants. They become smaller, lose her green color, water blooms.
Placed over the aquarium, it warms the water, makes it not comfortable for fish. Sometimes l / n complement the universal luminescent type of forehead, with an acceptable spectrum of the glow. They are mounted in a box placed on top of aquarium and with nested reflective foil.
Lighting aquarium with fluorescent lamps.
With multiple white and blue light, wide spectrum, economical, durable. The ratio of floor watt power per liter of water is enough for optimal lighting. To illuminate capacity up to 500 liters, there are two lamps with a reflector. The brown plants (Dutch) are highlighted by a source with a warm spectrum in the range of 1200-1800 K. For the bottom relief and the predatory fish, the cold light is approaching about 6700 K.
- Nanometer (N / M) - a unit of wavelength of light equal to a 10 -9 meter.
- Incandescent lamps (L / N).
- (K) Indicates - Celvin. The unit of thermodynamic temperature.
Lighting aquarium LED lamps (S.D.).
This is the most progressive method of illumination. Economy, do not distinguish heat. Their evenly scattering spectrum is suitable aquarium plants that do not deliver inconvenience. Used as an additional lighting option. Expanding the spectral range, it is used in combination with traditional radiation sources.
LED spotlights are suitable for aquariums without a lid. His bright beam reaches the bottom of the reservoir of any size. Enough to apply 1-3 pcs. C / d 10 W, 10.0 thousand kP and a light stream of 450-900 lm. Or 20 W having 1600 lm and a temperature of 6400 K.
For a 100-liter, rectangular shape, choose one power 50 W or 2 to 25. The spotlight does not highlight the heat heating water.
- SDL - LED lamp.
- Sl - tape.
- SD - Light emitter.
- LED - imagine how the emitting semiconductor device.
Lighting aquarium LED spotlights.
LED lamps for aquarium.
Their mount, suitable to the thickness of the wall of the aquarium to 12 mm. You can set on any shapes of the covers. The lamp places the role of both the main and additional lighting. Figure 3, 4. Water repellent design. With short-term immersion, do not lose properties and parameters.
Present six models. For fresh medium. Powered through a DC driver 1 with a voltage of 48 V. A sufficient radiation spectrum. Three-channel independent light control programmable controller. Creates various visual scenarios. Changes the flower temperature in the range of 6.5-15.0 thousand K.
The radiating elements are arranged in a design designed for quick installation on the side wall of the aquarium, fixed by a special lock. It has two variants of color spectra provided by 6 W diodes. Executed in a black or white case. Energy-saving devices are applied. Do not need maintenance. Dignity lED lamps. Modern design. In the design used components of well-known suppliers. Easy installation. Safe supply voltage.
- The driver is a device that provides voltage access to the consumer.
- LM - the value (unit) of the light flux.
LED lighting aquarium calculation.
The first version of the definition is indicative and amounts to one liter of water polyvatt and a light flux of 40 lm. That is, the volume of 100 liters will require the total capacity of 50 watts. SD is often used in the range from 0.2 and to the maximum 3.0. Therefore, based on the lighting power, the amount of emitters determine.
Sometimes such parameters are selected visually or on the advice of experienced aquarists: separately for living inhabitants and plants. For the latter there is a special semiconductor emitter selection calculator. It is designed for different height of aquariums. For shallow - up to 450 mm and more of this size. Enter such data.
- Dummy dimensions.
- Type of vegetation.
- The proposed brand of LEDs indicating the thermodynamic temperature to 8.0 thousand K.
- Tokom 350-700 MA.
- Illumination of 139-300 lm.
- According to this calculator, the number of drivers and power supplies for 24 and 36 V is calculated.
Select a source for light-length.
For a standard size aquarium (50 cm height), the parameters specified in the table are suitable.
Deep-water containers are illuminated by more powerful devices and reinforced light output. In order to save it, it is preferable to choose with the same characteristics. Comparative indicators are shown below the table.
Pay attention to the color spectrum. There is an opinion that sources of yellow, red light are suitable for the development of aquarium plants. There is another look - simultaneous combine several different lamps, the radiation of which affects the backlight and visual impression.
SMD - semiconductor emitting device. Abbreviation (Surface Mounted Device) is decrypted as a product suitable for mounting on a plane. The numbers mean the dimensions of the elements in mm.
Choosing a place of installation.
Pre-clarify the placement of lamps. Inside the aquarium, under the front cover, on the sides or from the back. To design the effect of overflow, on plants or fish, colored lamps are placed ahead. The daily arrange over the open reservoir, brightly illuminating the flora and fauna. Monochrome with d l mounting around the perimeter. And in case of insufficient brightness, it increases its length. It additionally highlights water. For aquarium without vegetation Original color lighting Applied RGB ribbon.
Why choose LED
it modern option Aquarium device. The LED belongs to the championship among lighting devices due to economical electricity consumption (about 70%) as well as according to specifications.
- On the spectral range, illumination and lighting are favorable for the existence of underwater inhabitants and plant world.
- Quality, color gamut, lighting characteristics are resistant throughout the term of use, more than four years. The sign of the degradation of the diode is the drop in the light flux.
- It goes to any part of the aquarium. Gradually regulates an increase or decrease in the intensity of light.
- Low voltage used safely during the operation of the instruments. It works steadily when fluctuations in the supply network.
- No periodic replacement of parts is required.
- During operation do not distinguish excessive heat, adversely affecting temperature mode Aquarium. Therefore, the requirements for the cooling system are less.
- LEDs are an environmentally friendly device. There are no substances harmful to health, ultraviolet and infrared radiation.
- Durable to mechanical exposure.
RGB - Capital letters mean a lot of color of light. Read, Green, Blue.
LED lighting aquarium with their own hands.
Observe the safety measures working with electricity near the container with water, disconnect the network voltage, do not allow water to enter the non-closed parts of the lamp.
Lighting reservoir by 40 liters.
For the manufacture of the device, you must have the following.
Placing LEDs.
The cover of the appropriate size for the installation in it is 16 single watt SD. Including white tone 10 pcs., 4 red and 2 blue. Such a spectrum of selection of colors ensures optimal growth of plants. White diodes with a luminescence temperature of 6500 K and a stream of 100 lm. Driver (power supply) is sufficient for 1-watt LEDs in the amount of 12-18 pcs.
Aluminum plates that serve radiators are mounted in the cover from the inside. They are attached to super glue. Additionally, with d l are placed on substrates 1 (stars), which also play the role of heat sink. Figure 1. Diodes are attached to the thermal coup. For cooling 16 elements, the radiator area is quite sufficient. Drilling holes, then screwed down the SD screws.
On the extreme rows there are white LEDs. In the middle: red and blue. All elements are connected by a sequential scheme - "plus" to "minus". The output is connected to the driver, on the other side of the lid. First check the quality of installation of diodes on the glow inside, and then convinced after installing it on the aquarium.
On the volume of 200 liters
Used SD 40 pcs. 3 W power. Sometimes they are guided by the definition of the brightness of the light by this ratio: one second watt per liter of water. However, with increasing depth, these indicators double. LED lighting in the lower layers should provide photosenthesis of plants and isolating the required amount of oxygen.
Sometimes it is suitable for lunar night lights, connecting a small segment of blue SD l. It is placed at the bottom of the bottom of the reservoir from the rear wall of the aquarium. The timer includes it at the time being.
Necessary materials, tool.
- LED lamps 40 pcs.
- Connectors (socket) 40 pcs.
- Copper wire.
- Plastic profile (chute) 2.5 M width of 10 cm.
- Current source (12 volts).
- Tool, milling cutter 48 mm for handling holes.
- The substrate is a flexible plate with elements.
- The timer is a device for temporary switching of an electrical circuit.
- Cooler - cooling knot.
Device manufacturing technology.
Two pieces of profile along the length of the aquarium are prepared. In the bottom of a meter long, chess order, 20 holes are drilled. Insert and fix diodes. Each in parallel is connected to b n 1. The cooler (fan) is mounted in places of increased heating of the lid or abundant evaporation.
LED lighting in the aquarium.
For the manufacture of the device is necessary typical nodes, Materials, tools, including. Ribbon on 12 elements. Current source by 12 volts. Connector for the connection is performed by a two-room 1.5 mm copper wire. Plastic flask (vessel) take a length of installation. Drill, soldering iron. Silicone accompanying materials.
Step-by-step technology. For the passage of the wire in the lid drill holes.
From the back of the SD l in three places glue pieces of foam rubber, avoiding her sagging. Shut down the wires to the token tracks. Place the ribbon in the flask is closed with covers and jokes are sealed. High quality close the hole, avoiding water from getting inside. After connecting the connector, check the device by connecting to the power supply. The finished backlight is connected through a tread outlet, programming the switching. It is taken into account that the device should work within 11-14 hours. Figure 2.
1.B.P. - Abbreviated power supply.
LED tape for aquarium use in backlight.
Use in backlight LED tape.
Below is a step-by-step instruction of the optimal lighting of aquarium.
- Set of tools.
- Cover (box) for the placement of parts, finished nodes.
- Protective glass that is protected from moisture from entering moisture.
- LED tape type 3528 with 60 elements in one meter. B p 12 volts.
- Soldering iron
- related materials
- copper wire.
Manufacturing technology.
On the length of the lid, according to the markup on the tape, four segments are cut off. In each 5-centimeter module is 3 pcs. LEDs.
The ends are cleaned, shaking two cocked tracks from silicone film. One of them plus, the second minus. Such an operation is performed with all four segments. Prepared for soldering seven ends, except for eighth, which is not involved in the scheme.
First connect two segments into one tape, observing the indication "+" and "-". Check the operation to connect to the power unit on which the same polarity designations. And also perform with two other segments.
The connecting wires are measured in advance in advance, avoiding provisions when installing the lid. Navigating, four segments check the connection to b / n. Control wire connections. All contacts protect insulating sealant. Prepared scheme from tapes ready for installation.
It is degreased with acetone, alcohol, solvent. Then, all four stripes pressed the adhesive part of the SD L.
In the corners of the lid, rubber stops that attach the stiffness of the structure are fixed. They hold the protective glass that was pre-wiped.
By setting it into rubber stops, all joints around the perimeter are filled with sealant.
In order to avoid contact with the aquarium body, the same pieces served as stopped with a protective glass of the cover.
The finished device is checked by connecting to the power supply.
Finished products for homemade works.
From the existing range in lights of light or aquariums, diodes are selected with the required parameters. RGB ribbons, various powered power, as well as Star mounting boards (sprocket). Matrix 10-100 watts. Lenses, aluminum fees, radiators of different sizes, current sources for 300-4500 Ma, dimmer 2 ranging from 350 mA, impermeable and open SD L, RGB Controllers 3. Soft wires 1.5 mm. Fans to a personal computer at 12 V. Snorzda and montage connections lamps. Required components manufactured by popular LED manufacturers: Aquael, Hagen, Juwel, Aqua Medic, Dennerie, Sera.
- Adapter - connecting device.
- Dimmer is an electronic structure expanding the functionality of the LED lamps.
- RGB Controller - radiation mode control, light adjustment.
LED spotlights in aquarium with control panel.
LED backlight with aerator
For aquarium with a capacity of 115 liters. A lamp with waterproof diodes is applied, reliably and resistant in immersion. The set includes a remote with color buttons and with intuitive control. These are: "Start", "Stop". Light adjustment: "More", "less." Lighting options and color selection. For example, turning on the ordinary mode of one shade step by step, adjust from the minimum level to the maximum. Estimated depending on the visual perception. And so on, throughout the range, laid down in the control panel program. In addition, there are also four other options for adjustment: flickering with all colors, the transition to a smooth flow into any color, or arrange a magnificent night light from aquarium.
The package includes a lamp for 12 diodes, attached to the bottom of two suckers. It has a hole for air hoses. Adapter, infrared receiver, control panel connected via USB connector.