Upgrading your Topfin 5-gallon shrimp tank's lighting can dramatically improve plant health and the overall aquarium aesthetic. This DIY guide details a simple and affordable solution, transforming a subpar light setup into a thriving environment for your shrimp and plants. We'll walk you through the process of replacing the stock lighting with a more powerful, timer-equipped alternative, all for under $20. This upgrade is perfect for owners of low-light aquatic plants, enhancing growth and overall tank vibrancy without complex modifications or specialized tools.This project involves a straightforward replacement of the existing Topfin hood lighting, utilizing readily available materials for a secure and reliable installation. We'll demonstrate a cost-effective approach that focuses on maximizing the new light's performance and ensuring a safe environment for your shrimp. Get ready to brighten up your shrimp tank and witness the positive effects of improved illumination on your aquatic plants!
Pros And Cons
- Decent plant light for under $20
- Includes a timer with 3, 6, and 12-hour options
- Not a high-end light; quality reflects the price
Read more: Top 5 NICREW Aquarium Lights
Replacing the Stock Light
I recently decided to upgrade the lighting in my Topfin 5-gallon shrimp tank. The original light wasn't cutting it for my plants, so I purchased a new, higher-output light from Amazon for around $17.
The new light features a handy timer function with 3, 6, and 12-hour settings, a valuable addition for consistent plant growth.
To install the new light, I first needed to remove the existing Topfin hood. This involved carefully breaking off the plastic clips securing the lid, which was surprisingly easy to do by twisting them off individually.
Securing the New Light
I used 3M Command Strips to mount the new light. I applied six strips for extra security, covering some areas with waterproof tape for added measure.
The Command Strips were previously unused, and I found them incredibly useful for this project. I went a little overboard with the tape, but it ensured a strong and secure attachment.
The result was a surprisingly secure attachment of the new light to the modified Topfin hood.
Final Thoughts and Conclusion
The upgraded light looks great in the tank and provides significantly better illumination for my plants. I'm hoping it'll promote healthy growth without scaring my shrimp!
The entire project was relatively inexpensive and simple to execute, making it an excellent upgrade for any Topfin 5-gallon shrimp tank owner.
While this isn't a high-end light (it cost under $20), it's perfect for low-light plants like water wisteria, mini salvinia, java fern, and anubias. The improved lighting provides a noticeable enhancement to the overall aesthetic of the aquarium.
