This review delves into the Current USA Serene Sun Pro LED aquarium light, examining its performance and features based on a week of real-world use. We explore the ease of setup, the effectiveness of the 24-hour controller with sunrise/sunset simulation, and the light's impact on plant growth. Particular attention is paid to the light's intensity and its potential to cause algae growth, a common issue with high-PAR lights. We compare its performance to other lights, specifically the Nikru/Knight Crew, highlighting the Serene Sun Pro's strengths and weaknesses.The review covers practical observations of plant growth, including both positive results (significant growth in various species) and negative consequences (hair algae development due to high light intensity). We discuss the importance of proper light placement and duration to mitigate algae issues, emphasizing the need for adjustments to optimize the light's performance for balanced plant growth and overall tank health. Ultimately, we assess whether the Serene Sun Pro lives up to its hype, considering both its impressive capabilities and limitations.
Pros And Cons
- Does its job
- Promotes plant growth (e.g., ocelot sword growth)
- Sleek design
- Includes standard controller
- 24-hour controller
- Cannot turn off moonlight on 24-hour controller
- Produces high PAR, leading to algae growth (requiring adjustment of light height or duration)
- High PAR at surface of water even when lowered
Read more: Top 5 NICREW Aquarium Lights
Initial Impressions and Setup
The Current USA Serene Sun Pro arrived, and initial setup was straightforward. I opted to place the light directly on the tank's rim, rather than using the included two-inch hangers. This allows for a closer look at the light's performance at maximum brightness.
The light boasts a 24-hour controller, offering sunrise and sunset simulation. The intensity reaches 100%, providing a bright, daylight-like spectrum. However, I found it odd that the moonlight setting couldn't be deactivated from the 24-hour controller.
Early observations show the light's effectiveness in plant growth. I noticed some algae growth, a common side effect of powerful aquarium lights, indicating its high PAR output.
Plant Growth and Algae
After a week of use, the Serene Sun Pro's positive impact on plant growth is evident. My Ocelot Sword plant, in particular, experienced remarkable growth, showcasing the light's effectiveness.
Conversely, the light's intensity led to the development of hair algae. This is often a sign of excessive light, and I'll need to adjust the light's position or duration to mitigate the algae issue.
Other plants also thrived under this light, with new growth appearing across several species. This highlights the light's ability to promote healthy plant growth when balanced correctly.
Performance and Features
I appreciate the sleek design and the included standard controller. The 24-hour cycle, with its sunrise and sunset simulation, is a welcome feature for mimicking natural light patterns.
However, the inability to fully switch off the moonlight setting on the controller is a significant drawback. I find it unnecessary to have a light source on during nighttime hours.
The light's performance overall is impressive. The improved growth compared to my previous light (Nikru/Knight Crew) underscores its effectiveness in fostering plant growth.
PAR Values and Conclusion
Regarding PAR values, Current USA's website suggests around 60-70 PAR at the substrate when the light is placed two inches above a 24-inch tank. My setup, with the light closer to the water, likely produces higher PAR, leading to the algae issue.
While the higher PAR is beneficial for plant growth, it's crucial to adjust the light's position (raising it) to balance growth and algae control. I'll be monitoring and adjusting to fine-tune the light's position.
Overall, the Current USA Serene Sun Pro is a powerful and effective aquarium light, enhancing plant growth significantly. The controller's moonlight limitation is a minor inconvenience, but the impressive growth and high PAR output make it a strong contender in the aquarium lighting market. While algae growth requires attention, it's a manageable issue with proper positioning.
