lighting question

[fishnewbie]

I was reading my directions on setting up the lighting for my new 30g tank and it said to leave it on 8 to 12 hours a day. My question is should I leave it on during the day and turn it off at night or leave it off during the day and turn it on at night? Which is the most beneficial way for my tank. Also how much will this affect the temperature of the water? Thanks for any info, I am learning a ton everyday I log on to this site!!!

Justin

 

[jobeak]

Firstly, between 10 and 14 hours a day is fine. I would recommend that you install one of those plug in timers so you don't have to worry about turning them on and off. heat from a light source is negligable unless its a small tank and a high wattage bulb. Its best to have your light on during the day and off at night. Fishies need their sleep too.

 

[GeraldTheMouse]

If you don't have live plants, you can keep it on less than eight hours a day, like maybe 5 or 6 hours.