10 best lamps for aquariums

One of the most important points when equipping an aquarium is the lighting system. Proper light is vital to fish and aquatic vegetation. Standard incandescent bulbs have long been a thing of the past, since they had a huge drawback - they emitted a lot of heat and gave little light. They were replaced by more efficient fluorescent and LED lamps.

It is necessary to select a lamp taking into account the volume of the aquarium, the requirements for lighting, the types of plants. Often in aquariums you can see fluorescent lamps, creating a special decorative lighting. The main requirements for lamps - minimum water heating, low power consumption, natural lighting, imitating daylight. Properly selected lighting helps not only to create comfortable conditions for the life of the inhabitants of the aquarium, but also to increase its decorative effect.

The best LED lamps for the aquarium

At the moment, the best are LED lamps. They have high luminous efficiency, consume a minimum of electricity, are reliable and durable. An important factor is that as the operation proceeds, there is no shift in the spectrum of illumination. There are several formats for LED lamps. The most common are T5, T8 and G13.

3 COLLAR Aqualighter 1 - LED lamp

LED lamps COLLAR Aqualighter 1 come in different sizes - you can choose the option for an aquarium of any size. The package includes mounts with which the lamp is easily fixed inside the standard aquarium cover. It can be used as auxiliary lighting or a complete replacement of obsolete lamps.

The LEDs are reliably protected from moisture by a sealant - it is not afraid of water. Among the advantages, users point out the lack of peep and extraneous sounds of the power supply, as is the case with cheaper models. The lamps themselves heat up at the level of T8 lamps, even slightly less. But most of all pleases uniform, not flickering light. A favorable effect on plants is noticed - by the end of the week of use they begin to rapidly grow.

2 Tetra, Tetronic LED ProLine 980

A great option for heavily planted aquariums. This LED lamp is popular due to the balanced emission spectrum needed by underwater vegetation. An additional advantage - provides protection from moisture and dust. The lamp can be lowered for a few minutes into the water at a meter depth, and it will continue to work normally. That is, if the lamp inadvertently falls into the water, nothing terrible will happen. For replacement, lamps with T5 and T8 bases are suitable.

Conveniently, there are several ways to install the lamp. It can be installed on top, on two side edges of the glass, if its thickness does not exceed 10 mm. To install on one edge of the rear window you need to purchase special mounts. Some users fix the lamp directly to the lid of the aquarium with screws.

1 Aquael, LEDDY SMART LED II SUNNY 6W

Nano-aquariums are called small tanks of no more than 40 liters. The lamp from the company Aquael has proven to be excellent performance - it can be called the best in its price range. Users note the ease of installation - due to the well-thought-out design, it is easily fixed on the edge of the wall, if the glass thickness does not exceed 6 mm.

The LEDs are quite powerful (6W), the color temperature is about 6500K. This is a good indicator for creating favorable conditions for the growth of ornamental aquatic plants. The lighting is natural, looks attractive. The lamp, in addition to the usual freshwater aquariums, is often installed in shrimp. According to the manufacturer, the lamp works up to 50,000 hours without replacement, that is, theoretically it can last up to 10 years.

The best fluorescent lamps for the aquarium

Fluorescent lamps are also used quite often. Their advantages are maximum proximity to natural light, high luminous efficiency, long service without replacement. Heat they almost do not emit. But there are some minor flaws - the luminous flux is scattered to the sides, as the operation proceeds, a gradual decline in light output in the orange-red spectrum occurs. Common basement formats are T8 and T5.

4 Jebo, 8W T5

Despite its origin, the brand is popular among users primarily because of the affordable prices. White fluorescent lamp does not have outstanding features, but provides sufficient lighting, promotes the full growth of fish and plants. The red version of the lamp gives a soft, unusual shade of water.

Very good color rendering for the budget category, a rather long service life, but less as compared to more expensive counterparts. This option can be considered with a limited budget.

3 T5 Hailea Exstra Reef

Fluorescent lamp with actinic radiation - the most pronounced blue and blue zone of the spectrum. It was developed to simulate the lighting of corals in the deep sea. For saltwater aquariums, this is a very good option, favorably influencing coral growth. Adds aesthetic composition, visually enhancing the blue and red tones.

Of the benefits, users note the low cost, very beautiful, deep lighting, stimulation of coral growth. The only drawback - to find this lamp on sale is not easy, you have to order in online stores.

2 Dennerle Color Plus T5

Fluorescent lamp from one of the most famous manufacturers. The main advantage is that in freshwater aquariums, the coloring of plants and fish is emphasized. Blue and red-orange tones look especially bright. Combination with Amazon-Day Trocal T5 lamp is allowed. Works with a slight loss of spectrum of illumination for more than 10,000 hours.

The manufacturer provides a UV-stop protective film that prevents the growth of algae. But in fact, it does not give any effect - algae continue to grow. But this solution also has a positive side - the film protects the lamp from mechanical damage, it will not crumble in the hands in case of impact.

1 JBL "Solar Ultra Natur"

Fluorescent lamp full solar spectrum is designed for freshwater aquariums. Differs very bright, but natural light. It has the best color rendering index - 1A, color temperature - 9000 Kelvin.

According to the manufacturer, the lamp is designed for continuous operation for 10,000 hours, but in practice it has to be changed once a year.For a more natural color of fish and healthy development of underwater plants, some aquarists additionally install a T5 JBL Solar Ultra Tropic lamp.

The best UV lamps for the aquarium

UV lamps disinfect water, preventing its clouding and greening. During their work, the water is gradually purified, it becomes transparent again. Now small ultraviolet lamps embedded in aquarium filters. But this is a specialized lamp used from time to time — it cannot replace the main lighting. The device that powers the lamp is called a sterilizer.

3 Jebo UV-H24

Universal device for all types of aquariums. But when you purchase a lamp, you need to consider that for a saltwater aquarium it should be about two times more powerful than for a freshwater one.

Of the benefits, users note the quick action. According to reviews, with a slight turbidity, the water is purified within a day after the start of use. The service life is long. Buy a replacement UV lamp will not be a problem - it costs about 800 rubles.

2 UV HOPAR, FOR AQUARIUS UP TO 1000 L, 18 W

Performs the same function as other sterilizers. The device emits ultraviolet rays of high intensity. They easily destroy pathogens, free-floating algae, accelerate the mineralization of organic compounds.

This model is appreciated by buyers for the optimal ratio of quality and price, versatility - it can be used for all types of aquariums.

1 Aquael UV Lamp Mini UV

Sterilizer from the famous brand is made in the form of a short sleeve, which is superimposed on the output nozzle of the filter. Four LEDs emit ultraviolet light. The lamp fits all internal filters of the same brand. Periodic use of the Aquael lamp prevents diseases of aquarium fish by destroying the bacteria.

Users like the ease of installation, no need for any special care. The lamp is very compact, its installation does not affect the appearance of the aquarium, does not violate the overall composition.

Popular vote - who is the best manufacturer of aquarium lamps
We vote!

Aquael

Tetra

Aqualighter

Jbl

Dennerle

Hailea

Jebo

HOPAR

Hagen

Sera

Juwel

Philips

Osram

Zolux

Total votes: 5

Vote results