Lighting
Shop the latest innovation in aquarium lighting — from high-output controllable LED lights to compact, low-energy nano strip lighting. Whether you’re planning a planted freshwater tank, a marine reef build, or adding supplementary lighting to an existing setup, Charterhouse Aquatics offers a wide selection of premium lighting products from trusted brands. Enjoy free UK delivery over £50, flexible payment options, and expert advice.
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Have Questions About Lighting?
We have answers. Get quick help for common questions.
1. What type of aquarium lighting is best for planted freshwater tanks?
The best lighting for planted freshwater aquariums is full-spectrum LED lighting in the range of 6,000–7,500K. This type of lighting provides the essential red and blue wavelengths that plants need for photosynthesis while also producing a natural daylight appearance inside the tank. A fixture such as the Fluval Plant Spectrum LED is specifically designed to encourage strong and healthy plant growth, making it a popular choice for aquascapers and hobbyists who want lush greenery.
3. How many hours should aquarium lights be on each day?
The correct photoperiod depends on the type of aquarium you are running. Freshwater fish-only tanks typically need between six and eight hours of light per day, while planted freshwater setups usually require eight to ten hours to ensure proper plant growth. Marine fish-only tanks also do well with eight to ten hours of light, whereas reef aquariums with corals often need between eight and twelve hours, ideally with gradual ramp-up and ramp-down periods to simulate sunrise and sunset.
5. What is PAR in aquarium lighting?
PAR, or Photosynthetically Active Radiation, refers to the range of light that plants and corals can use for photosynthesis. It is measured in micromoles per square metre per second and indicates how much usable light is available at a given depth in the tank. Higher PAR values are required for demanding corals such as SPS species, while low to medium PAR is sufficient for freshwater plants or soft corals. Choosing a lighting system with appropriate PAR ensures that your plants and corals thrive.
7. Can I use regular household lights for my aquarium?
Standard household lights are not suitable for aquariums because they do not provide the correct spectrum, intensity, or safety features required for aquatic environments. Aquariums need specialised lighting designed to withstand humidity, provide the correct PAR levels, and deliver specific spectrum ranges to support aquatic plants and corals. Using dedicated aquarium lighting ensures both the health of your livestock and the longevity of your setup.
9. Do different fish species prefer different lighting?
Yes, certain fish species respond differently to lighting. Many tropical freshwater fish are comfortable under daylight-spectrum lighting that enhances their natural colours. Marine fish often look best under blue tones that mimic their natural reef environment. Dimmer lighting can help shy or nocturnal species feel secure, while bright, adjustable LEDs can showcase colourful species such as discus, tetras, or clownfish. Choosing lighting that complements your fish species helps create a natural and stress-free habitat.
2. What lighting do I need for a reef aquarium?
Reef aquariums thrive under lighting that emphasises the blue and violet spectrum, particularly between 400–500 nm. These wavelengths support photosynthesis in the symbiotic algae within corals and also enhance coral fluorescence, creating the vibrant glow that reef tanks are known for. High-performance LED units such as the EcoTech Radion or AI Hydra deliver the required PAR levels, provide programmable spectrum control, and allow aquarists to mimic natural ocean lighting cycles for the healthiest coral growth.
4. Do aquarium lights need to be left on at night?
Aquarium lights should not be left on during the night because fish, plants, and corals all benefit from a natural dark period. Just as in nature, aquatic life requires time to rest, and too much continuous light can cause stress and encourage algae blooms. Some aquarists enjoy using subtle moonlight settings in the evening to view nocturnal behaviour, but these should only be used for a short time and at very low intensity. A consistent cycle of day and night lighting is key to keeping an aquarium balanced and healthy.
6. What colour temperature is best for aquariums?
Colour temperature is measured in Kelvin and describes the appearance of the light. Freshwater aquariums, particularly planted tanks, typically do best with lighting between 6,000 and 7,500K, which mimics natural daylight. Marine aquariums, especially reef tanks, benefit from cooler temperatures of 10,000–20,000K, which create the blue tones associated with ocean environments and enhance coral fluorescence. The right colour temperature depends on whether you want to encourage plant growth, coral health, or simply highlight fish colours.
8. How do I control algae growth with lighting?
Algae growth is often linked to excessive or inconsistent lighting schedules. To control algae, limit the photoperiod to the recommended duration for your tank type and use a timer or controller for consistency. Avoid placing the aquarium where it receives direct sunlight, as this encourages algae. In planted tanks, maintaining the right balance of light, nutrients, and CO₂ also helps plants outcompete algae for resources.
10. What accessories do I need with aquarium lighting?
Accessories such as mounting brackets, light stands, diffusers, and controllers can greatly improve your lighting setup. Mounting options allow you to position the lights at the correct height and angle, while diffusers ensure even light spread across the tank. Controllers provide advanced options such as sunrise and sunset simulation, dimming, and spectrum adjustments. These accessories help you create a more natural and customisable lighting environment for your aquarium.
Find the Perfect Aquarium Lighting at Charterhouse Aquatics
Whether you’re setting up your first freshwater aquarium or upgrading a thriving marine reef tank, the right lighting makes all the difference. At Charterhouse Aquatics, we stock a wide range of aquarium lighting solutions — from energy-efficient LED strip lights and nano fixtures to advanced controllable reef systems designed for coral growth and colour enhancement.
Our collection includes trusted brands such as EcoTech, AI Hydra, and Fluval, giving you options that combine reliability, performance, and value. Every light is carefully selected to meet the needs of aquarists at every level, whether you’re growing lush aquatic plants, showcasing vibrant fish, or maintaining demanding SPS corals.
With free UK delivery on orders over £50, expert advice from our team, and a huge range of accessories like mounting arms and controllers, Charterhouse Aquatics is your go-to destination for aquarium lighting.
