Single light reflectors optimize T-5 light output!
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Brilliant, T-5 fluorescent aquarium light fixtures with enhanced light reflectors
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Specially-designed reflectors redirect 20% more light into your aquarium than older Nova models
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Energy-efficient light fixture for aquariums with higher light requirements
Innovative reflector design maximizes T-5 light output. The popular Nova Extreme T-5 Fixtures are now enhanced with a contoured single lamp reflector (SLR). A single polished reflector is specially formed to cradle each individual lamp to direct over 99% of the T-5 lighting into the aquarium. Low-profile fixtures measure only 2” high. Features energy-efficient electronic ballast, integrated cooling fan (select 4 lamp models only), docking mounts, and a protective splash lens. Includes T-5 HO lamps.
Nova Extreme Saltwater
Model
Total Watts
T-5 Bulbs
Fan Cooled
# of Cords
18" x 5-1/2"
36
1-18 W 10,000°K 1-18 W 460 nm actinic
No
1
24" x 5-1/2"
48
1-24 W 10,000°K 1-24 W 460 nm actinic
No
1
24" x 8"
96
2-24 W 10,000°K 2-24 W 460 nm actinic
No
3
30" x 5-1/2"
48
1-24 W 10,000°K 1-24 W 460 nm actinic
No
1
36" x 8"
156
2-39 W 10,000°K 2-39 W 460 nm actinic
Yes
3
48" x 5-1/2"
108
1-54 W 10,000°K 1-54 W 460 nm actinic
No
1
48" x 8"
216
2-54 W 10,000°K 2-54 W 460 nm actinic
Yes
3
Nova Extreme Freshwater
Model
Total Watts
T-5 Bulbs
Model
Total Watts
T-5 Bulbs
24"
48
1-24 W 10,000°K 1-24 W Freshwater
30"
48
1-24 W 10,000°K 1-24 W Freshwater
36"
78
1-39 W 10,000°K 1-39 W Freshwater
48"
108
1-54 W 10,000°K 1-54 W Freshwater
To view compatible bulbs for these fixtures,
click here.
Please click on "More Information" for installation and maintenance instructions.
Dual Lamp Models
Instructions
Carefully remove the lighting fixture from packaging.
Remove acrylic splash lens and remove plastic lens protector and packaging material around the lamps.
Make sure lamps are firmly inserted into sockets. Replace acrylic splash lens.
Plug the power cords into ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets.
DO NOT place fixture underneath a canopy or hood. This light fixture is designed to be placed above an aquarium. It is not intended to be placed under a canopy. The light fixture is to be used over completely covered aquariums only.
Installation Instructions
Carefully unpack the fixture and remove all of the packing material. Slide open the acrylic splash lens to remove any packing material used in order to secure the lamps during transportation. Once you have removed the packing material make sure the lamps are securely in their sockets. Slide the acrylic splash lens back into place after you have finished.
First test the fixture before installing on your aquarium. Plug the power cord into a GFCI protected outlet. Turn the switch on the side of the fixture, two lamps at a time should come on with the switch.
Once you have tested the lamps and ensured proper operation, you may slide the adjustable wire tank mounts to fit over the outer edge and frame of the aquarium. Ensure that the fixture is placed on a tank with a glass lens as it is NOT DESIGNED for open top tanks.
You may now place the light fixture above your aquarium and begin enjoying your new light fixture.
If you wish to automate the lighting cycles you may use a rotary timer for the power cord. Set the timers so the lamps are on approximately 10-11 hours daily. Check online to see if your particular aquatic life require more or less light and adjust accordingly.
Regular Maintenance
Proper care of your Nova Extreme Light Fixture will ensure years of excellent performance.
Do not attempt to do any maintenance while the light fixture is turned on. Unplug the fixture and remove from operation before performing maintenance.
Inspect the fixture's exterior and interior (lamp area) once per month for any visible signs of salt buildup. Remove any salt buildup with a damp cloth. If there is corrosion on the electrical components including the power cords, the fixture must be removed from service and repaired or replaced before operating again.
Inspect the fan (24"-48" models) and ensure that it spins freely. If dust has accumulated on the blades, use a damp cloth to remove the dust.
Once you have completed the maintenance and verified there are no damaged or malfunctioning parts, you may place the fixture back in service.
SlimPaq Actinic T-5 HO (Saltwater models only) - A super actinic blue lamp emitting light energy required by corals and invertebrates, along with producing a high UV output. Outstanding color rendition makes corals, invertebrates, and fish fluoresce brilliantly.
SlimPaq Freshwater T-5 HO (Freshwater models only) - A bright pinkish hue lamp emits the ideal light energy and spectrum required by freshwater plants for photosynthesis. High color rendition enhances the brilliant colors in freshwater fish and brings out the lush green in plants.
SlimPaq 10,000°K T-5 HO - A powerful, penetrating full spectrum lamp replicating sunlight found on living coral reefs. Exceptional high lumen output concentrated between 400-480nm stimulates zooxanthellae production increasing both coral and invertebrate growth.
Important: The Nova Extreme T-5 Fixtures are designed to be placed above an aquarium. They are not intended to be placed under a canopy. These light fixtures are to be used over completely covered aquariums only.
Four Lamp Models
Installation Instructions
Carefully unpack the light fixture and remove all of the packing material. Slide open the acrylic Splash Lens to remove any packing material used to secure the lamps during transportation. Once you have removed the packing materials, make sure the lamps are securely positioned in their sockets. Slide the acrylic Splash Lens back into place after you have finished.
Test the light fixture before installing it over your aquarium. Plug each end of the power cords into an outlet protected by a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) Turn on each of the switches on the side of the fixture. Each switch should turn on two lamps. The fan will operate with one set of lamps.
Once you have tested the lamps and ensured proper operation, you may now install the Docking Mounts provided (if applicable). Simply slide the acrylic Splash Lens out a few inches and then slide the Docking Mounts in the grooves on the aluminum housing. Use the supplied set of screws to secure the Docking Mounts in place.
If you are not using the Docking Mounts for your application, please apply the four Rubber Feet to the bottom of the light fixture. Place the Rubber Feet on each corner. The Rubber Feet will allow a gap for air between the light fixture and the glass top.
You may now place the light fixture above your aquarium and begin enjoying your new lights.
If you wish to automate the lighting cycles, use a rotary timer for each power cord. Set the timers so the actinic lamps turn on first followed by the Daylight lamps. Set the Actinic Lamp to turn on one hour before the Daylight lamps turn on and one hour after the Daylight lamps have turned off. The Daylight lamps should be on for 9-10 hours. This suggested lighting schedule should provide the optimum lighting cycle.
Regular Maintenance
Proper care your Nova Extreme Light Fixture will ensure years of excellent performance.
Do not attempt to do any maintenance while the light fixture is turned on. Unplug the fixture and remove from operation before performing maintenance.
Inspect the fixture's exterior and interior lamp area at least once a month for any visible signs of salt buildup. Remove any salt buildup with a clean damp cloth. If there are any signs of corrosion on the electrical components, including the power cords, the fixture must be removed from service and repaired or replaced before operating again.
Inspect the fan and make sure that it freely spins. If dust has accumulated on the blades, use a clean damp cloth to remove the dust.
Once you have completed the maintenance and verified there is no damage or malfunctioning parts, you may place the fixture back in service.
Testimonial By:
Testimonial:
Judy Lester Dayville, CT
I run the 24" freshwater on my 15g planted tank. My demanding Hemianthus Callitrichoides love it but the best thing is while giving a high light output, these T-5s don't put out alot of heat. Not a big deal in the winter but a definite plus in the summer. I highly recommend them.
I purchased the 18" 36 watt saltwater fixture and was very pleased, until the actinic bulb went. I got it replaced and all was well. Just recently, the whole fixture went out, so maybe I got a lemon. I've had it for a month. I exchanged for the 24" 96 watt saltwater and am waiting on it now. Overall, it was a nice fixture and sleek design. The reflectors also help tremendously and the light output is by far the best for the money. Very little heat exchange and sits well over tank.
I upgraded from a good PC fixture to this T5 fixture (48") and the difference is unbelievable! You can see the difference in par and quality of light as soon as you turn it on. The whole tank is much brighter and the light penetrates to the bottom.
The only problem is the fan noise. It is so loud it almost gives you a headache. If you are looking to keep this in a bedroom or somewhere you want quiet, I would consider a different fixture or plan on replacing the fan. If you have a fish room where noise isn't as much of an issue, I highly recommend this product!
After a long (and confusing) search for a good lighting fixture for my 55 gallon reef, the Nova Extreme has proven to be easy to operate and maintain. Its superior lighting capabilities have enabled me to keep many different corals and invertebrates at a fraction of the cost of other light fixtures.
I just purchased the 48” 216watt light and am very satisfied with it. It is super bright compared to my old single florescent 40w bulb! So far, after a couple hours, my fish are more active and my Sleeper Goby keeps popping out from underneath the rock. The only problem is the noise from the fan. There is no way to tune it out. It is very noticeable. I cannot thank the staff at Drs. Foster and Smith enough for helping me with my purchase. I definitely will be purchasing more from them in the future!
Don't take the quality of your tap water for granted. If you draw your water from a well, nature may not be providing you the perfect balance. If you are using tap water from your municipal department, it likely includes minerals and additives.
Algae are prolific and opportunistic organisms that take advantage of aquarium systems that are out of balance. Water quality issues create ideal conditions for algae. This article explains how proper water quality helps control algae.
Coral propagation is a challenging and rewarding aspect of the reef aquarium hobby. It is also a great way to promote coral conservation. Learn more here.
An important component of an aquarium that often gets overlooked is lighting. This article gives a basic description of available aquarium lighting systems.
Please note: If you wish to ship items with this symbol by express service, additional shipping charges will apply during checkout.
Please note: Return of electrical equipment and lightbulbs to Foster & Smith Aquatics for exchange or refund is limited to 60 days from the date of purchase. Beyond 60 days, please contact the manufacturer for repair or replacement as covered by the manufacturer's warranty.
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 "Nova Extreme SLR T-5 Fixtures")
Innovative reflector design maximizes T-5 light output. The popular Nova Extreme T-5 Fixtures are now enhanced with a contoured single lamp reflector (SLR). A single polished reflector is specially formed to cradle each individual lamp to direct over 99% of the T-5 lighting into the aquarium. Low-profile fixtures measure only 2” high. Features energy-efficient electronic ballast, integrated cooling fan (select 4 lamp models only), docking mounts, and a protective splash lens. Includes T-5 HO lamps.
