This review delves into the iQuatics Aquarium Light Hanging Kit, focusing on its practicality and effectiveness in a real-world installation. The author needed a 120cm light stand for a specific aquarium setup, and after encountering difficulties sourcing suitable alternatives, settled on the iQuatics kit. This decision was driven by the kit's immediate availability, a crucial factor given the author's urgent need. The review details the installation process, highlighting both positive and negative aspects, offering a balanced perspective on the product's strengths and weaknesses.The assessment covers various aspects, including installation ease, build quality, compatibility with specific LED lights (ONF Flat 1), and the responsiveness of iQuatics customer service. While some minor adjustments and modifications were required due to unforeseen compatibility issues, the author ultimately concludes on the kit's overall value and reliability. The review offers valuable insights for those considering a similar aquarium lighting upgrade, emphasizing the importance of considering light dimensions and potential compatibility challenges.
Pros And Cons
- Looks professional and stylish
- Mounted on the cabinet (preferred mounting method)
- Fast shipping (3 days from UK to Minnesota)
- Good customer service; quickly replaced missing parts with no questions asked
- Uses standard hardware (Allen screws, nuts, and bolts)
- Good quality
- Plastic hardware (reviewer initially disliked this)
- Locking pins had visible gray rubber that bothered the reviewer
- Suspension fittings not compatible with ONF Flat 1 LEDs without modification
- 120cm length may not be ideal for all light fixtures; reviewer needed to adjust light placement due to light size
Read more: Top 5 NICREW Aquarium Lights
The Search for the Perfect Light Stand
My aquarium lighting upgrade required a 120cm light stand that met specific aesthetic and mounting criteria. I desired a professional, stylish design that attached to the cabinet, rather than sitting atop the aquarium glass. Initial options, such as the UNS light stand (discontinued) and the Evolution Aqua (constantly out of stock), proved elusive.
The iQuatics kit emerged as the only readily available solution, despite reservations about its plastic hardware. The need for a reliable mounting solution outweighed the minor aesthetic concerns.
Installation and First Impressions
Installation involved using locking pins, but the gray rubber showing around them initially detracted from the overall aesthetic. However, the stainless steel machining itself was high-quality and professional, outweighing the minor flaw. The kit arrived remarkably quickly from the UK (within three days) - a pleasant surprise for a Minnesota resident.
While the kit came with two suspension fittings, I had ordered four. iQuatics promptly addressed this oversight and sent the missing parts without any issues. Their quick responses via Facebook and email also contributed to a positive customer service experience.
Compatibility and Mounting Challenges
Unfortunately, the supplied suspension fittings proved incompatible with my ONF Flat 1 LED lights. Modifications to the existing wiring and hardware were needed, which I opted against. The lights weren't the exact 24 inches stated, preventing centered mounting and a perfectly perpendicular setup. The top hangers were slightly angled towards the center as a result.
To achieve a perfect perpendicular hang, a precisely 120cm light would have been ideal. I contacted ONF, who confirmed a 120cm flat pendant model existed but had technical issues.
Overall Assessment and Recommendation
The iQuatics hanging kit uses Allen screws, nuts, and bolts, mounting securely to the cabinet given a ¾-inch thickness. I needed to utilize a section with supporting lumber for optimal stability. Fortunately, my local hardware store had longer bolts for a perfect fit. Despite the initial minor setbacks (plastic hardware and lighting incompatibility), the overall quality and customer service were excellent.
I highly recommend the iQuatics Aquarium Light Hanging Kit for its robust construction, ease of installation (with minor adjustments), and exceptional customer support. While some minor compatibility considerations may arise depending on the specific lights used, the kit’s strength and reliability make it a worthwhile investment.
