Using old VHO bulbs

[olds350racer]

I have a question...
I am currently working on a setup with dual 10k 250w HQI (new bulbs). I would like to add 330w VHO (3-48" 110w T12 Actinic) for "aesthetic" color balance. The problem is that I have no idea the age of the bulbs (so I have to assume they have lost their useful spectrum). I know they would not help coral health, but are there physical/biological drawnbacks (algea, UV, etc) with using old VHO T12 bulbs for supplemental "aesthetic" purposes?
Thanks

 

[flyingarmy]

I know as thier spectrum decreases then yes it can promote nuisance algae growth. VHOs are not the expensive and I know AquaBuys carries them at a great price, mmight as well pick up some new ones. Are you running a IceCap430? Great ballast if you aren't!

 

[schwaggs]

I dunno the answer to the spectrum question but if anyone wants more old 48" VHO bulbs, I have a box full of them they can HAVE!

 

[roland jacques]

I don't think actinic shift much in color spectrum. (unlike whiter lamps do)
they do lose intensity, but they don't have much useful PAR anyway.
So IMO it would OK to skimp a little and use the old actinic bulbs

 

[dakota9]

What Roland said..........

Actinics only have a slight color shift as they age, and are good for much longer than the white bulbs