armadillo

Hi everyone. I don't remember if I've actually posted this or not. The memory's going you see. My question is this: I'd like the lights in my tanks to switch itself on in a softer, more gradual way. How do you do this? Would a dimmer switch work although they're neon lights?

Luniyn

I believe you mean Florescent lights, and no they can not be on a dimmer. They are either on or off and there isn't an in between. The only thing you could do if you have the lights in a hood that can be lifted off is lift it off the tank and turn it on while facing it up away from the tank. Then rotate it so it is facing the tank and slowly move it back to position and this will create a more subtle increase in light rather then the sudden on that you are getting now (which I'm guessing you are worried about stressing your fish?) But in all honesty it's not all that big of a deal to the fish, and if you turn it on at the same time each day, they will get used to it and understand it is part of their day cycle. Of course they will probably still run for cover every time, but it won't stress them out.

vin

Certain fluoresent lamps can be dimmed...unfortunately, not the tube type.

armadillo

Yes, that's what I mean, sorry. Fluorescent.

You don't think it'll stress them out too bad. The do run for cover so I'm guessing it's definitely not relaxing them.

Good idea about switching it on when the cover is up. I"d have an issue with my lights which are on timer, but at least for my skittish plecos, that would really work.

vin

It shouldn't bother them.

armadillo

OK, I'll try not to mother them quite so much. :

Tell a lie. I will keep racking my brain for a nice solution.