Introduction  |  Aquarium Choices & Considerations Filtration  |  Filter Systems |  Filter Media Temperature Control |  Lighting Creating the Aquatic Environment Aquarium Decorative Features and Characteristics Water  |  Live Plants  |  CO2 In The Aquarium Introducing Fish  |  Fish Care  |  Feeding Aquarium Maintenance  |  Basic Maintenance Guide   How to Maximize Efficiency of Fluorescent Lighting Keep any glass between bulb and water surface free of algae and mineral deposits. Clean the bulb surface weekly (with damp soft sponge) if directly exposed to water surface. If bulbs or lenses accumulate mineral deposits, clean with a mild acid. In situations requiring higher light intensities, it is recommended to line fluorescent fixtures with a reflector. Replace fluorescent tubes annually, for maximum efficiency. Make note of installation date of fluorescent bulbs. Combine different tubes for certain specialty applications to maximize spectral representation. Use electronic ballast(s) when possible, for the following reasons: higher frequency operation, resulting in superior bulb performance and visual presentation higher power factor, greater or equal to 0.96 longer ballast life increases bulb life greater flexibility, triggers all bulb diameters (T-8, T-10 & T-12) greater energy efficiency less heat production will not affect aquarium temperature Avoid turning lights on and off unnecessarily.