LED light for 128L aquarium

Motivation: the old reflector kit in my 125 gallon aquarium had become defective, and only 1 of 2 tubes were usable. Instead of buying the original replacement kit, I decided to mount 2 LED panels instead. The LED solution is cheaper, it uses less power and I strongly expect it to take longer.

Another advantage of the LED panels is that it is only 24V DC and not 220V AC like the old one. It's a very humid environment, after all, and that's why I'm not happy with the higher voltage.


Step 1: the original reflector kit (background socket defective)

One of the two light tube sockets had become defective. Instead of buying the original replacement kit, I decided to mount LED panels instead.


Step 2: Remove the existing electronics

First, the remaining electronics were removed. Sockets and wires were simply broken free from the reflector part and removed.


Step 3: drill holes for plastic strips

Drill the appropriate holes for the plastic strips that will later be attached to the LED panels. Drilling into the aluminum reflector is pretty straight forward.

I had originally planned on building some custom brackets, but I changed my mind and decided to just reuse the reflector as a mounting platform. This made the whole thing very easy (I can't believe anything easier than plastic stips ...)

Another advantage of the plastic strips is that they are well suited for damp surroundings.

LED panels actually came with some universal mounts, but now I've decided not to use them, just go with a plastic strip solution.


Step 4: adjust the plastic strips

4 plastic strips are ready for mounting the LED panels. The LED panels are very light, and I find it very unlikely that any of the plastic strips should ever break.

LED panels and 24V adapters (36W) bought from www.terrajova.com. You can also find "Terrajova" on Facebook. The owner, Vagn, is very helpful and happy to advise. I am sure you can communicate with him in English if necessary.


Step 5: attach the LED panels and wires

Adjust the LED panels and peel off the plastic strips. Use additional strips to secure the cord as needed to prevent it from falling into the water.

The foreground LED panel is a 6000K "grow" type and the background LED panel is a normal 5000K 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 the color temperature and the amount of light emitted is just perfect for this size aquarium.