Introduction: LED Light for 128L Aquarium
The images above shows the aquarium before and after mounting the LED panels
Motivation: the old reflector kit in my daughters aquarium had become defect, and only 1 of 2 tubes were usable. Rather than buying the original replacement kit, I decided to mount 2 LED panels instead. The LED solution is cheaper, it consumes less power and I strongly expect it will last longer.
Another advantage of the LED panels is, that it is only 24V DC and not 220V AC as the old one. It is after all a very humid environment, and therefore I am not comfortable with the higher voltage.
Step 1: The Original Reflector Kit (background Socket Defect)
One of the two light-tube sockets had become defect. Rather than buying the original replacement kit, I decided to mount LED panels instead.
Step 2: Remove the Existing Electronics
Firstly the remaining electronics was removed. Sockets and wires were easily broken free of the reflector part and removed.
Step 3: Drill Holes for Plastic Strips
Drill appropriate holes for the plastic strips that will later fasten the LED panels. Drilling into the reflector aluminum is pretty straight forward.
Originally I planned on constructing some custom mounting brackets, but I changed my mind and decided on simply reusing the reflector as a mounting platform. This made the whole thing very simple (I can't think of anything simpler than plastic stips...)
The advantage of plastic strips is furthermore that they are well suited for the humid environment.
The LED panels actually came with some general-purpose mounting brackets, but for now I decided not to use them, but just to go with the plastic strip solution.
Step 4: Fit the Plastic Strips
4 plastic strips are prepared for mounting of the LED panels. The LED panels are very lightweight, and I find it very unlikely that any of the plastic strips should ever break.
LED panels and 24V adaptor (36W) bought from www.terrajova.eu. You can also find 'Terrajova' on Facebook. The owner, Vagn, is very helpful and happy to give advice. I am sure you can communicate with him in English if needed.
Step 5: Fasten the LED Panels and Wires
Fit the LED panels and tighten the plastic strips. Use additional strips to secure the cables as needed, to prevent them from falling into the water.
The foreground LED panel is a 6000K "grow" type and the background LED panel is a 5000K normal type.
That's it!
You can see the result on the front page. My daughter and I are very happy with the result. We think that both color temperature and amount of light emitted is just perfect for this size aquarium.
