UNBIASED Fluval Plant 3.0 Review

[@MDFishTanks]

👉👉MD MERCH CLICK HERE: 3D BETTA HOODIE: md-fish-tanks.creator-spring.com/listing/md-3d-betta FULL MERCH SHOP: md-fish-tanks.creator-spring.com Matt Instagram: instagram.com/matt_swfishkeeper @Bentley Pascoe Guide: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mqGnpX16hteNh80 Equipment (all links affiliate): FLUVAL PLANT 3.0: amzn.to/3nZFCAK LED FLOODLIGHTS: US amzn.to/3m3cEz9 UK amzn.to/3orIdRv GOOD BUDGET LIGHT:: US amzn.to/3nZFCAK UK amzn.to/3fZ63lV SMALL HANG ON BACK FILTER: US amzn.to/2Mw63OO UK amzn.to/39rx3b5 NANO INTERNAL FILTER: US amzn.to/3oxGBWm UK CANISTER FILTER: US amzn.to/3iNeVtW UK amzn.to/2Fo774a GOOSENECK CLIP ON LAMP: (similar as product is now discontinued) US amzn.to/2IlwLVA UK amzn.to/2LNat13 MINI WATER PUMP: US amzn.to/2oAmf5y UK amzn.to/2mjHDez TANKS: US amzn.to/2SOocHG UK amzn.to/2SPA24i STRIP LED LIGHT: US (similar) amzn.to/2SNgbm7 UK amzn.to/2Fn9aW1 ASTA LED LIGHT: US amzn.to/3k9EmpY UK amzn.to/3p5XUPY AQUARIUM RACKING: Shelving: US amzn.to/2SrYZ5k UK amzn.to/2GFWKJ2 AIRPUMP (FILTER SYSTEM): US amzn.to/31z8FA9 UK amzn.to/37GIoUa FILTER SPONGES: US amzn.to/3dQLUfM UK amzn.to/3dS2k7K MEDIA BAGS: US amzn.to/34Kaf2N UK amzn.to/3lAj3z1 STAINLESS LILY PIPES: US amzn.to/2FqHpvR UK amzn.to/2RlfrnC BOWL AQUARIUMS: US amzn.to/2M4FwFO UK: amzn.to/2Vx73CL API® products Subscribe to API on KZbin: kzbin.info USA consumers purchase API products on Amazon: www.amazon.com/stores/page/2193F555-CE5F-4A6B-BDC4-F315CB7F175D?channel=MDTanks UK consumers purchase API products on Amazon: www.amazon.co.uk/stores/page/25663644-6C8C-432C-9E6A-0A85082C3E3C AQUARIAN® products Follow AQUARIAN on KZbin: kzbin.info/door/NxaNWKoWr_ztSgXgPj9r8A Purchase AQUARIAN products here: aquarian.co.uk/where-to-buy/ AWESOME MEMBERSHIP COMMUNITY kzbin.info/door/3uQXzXSPspf2LoGdtYGiHwjoin FOLLOW MY INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/md_fishtanks/

[@veitsturm8085]

This is perfekt

[@aquaaurora2747]

PST You accidentally linked the fluval 3 in the "good budget light" for the US-its not the budget one though

[@omkaringalgi]

The colours of the fish are popping out 😍

[@RascalV666]

wow the light looks really good, no need to hide in any aquarium you do not have the quality of light.

[@nightwalkerz-88]

I love your discus hoodie I breed angels an would love to buy an angel hoodie that looks like your discus one can this be done

[@SamPonjican]

My favorite thing about these types of lights is the sunrise/sunset mode that completely transforms the look of the tank as the light ramps up and down. I'll find myself looking at the plants and fish in an entirely different way, depending on the time of day. I think you'll enjoy getting that experience as well!

[@MDFishTanks]

nice one Sam...it actually ramped up and off when I wasn't in the studio for the review. I think I'm going to fit it to the old discus tank for the next big build. I should see the sunrise and sunset feature then.

[@ricefarmer1point6]

That and the storm settings are really cool

[@Stacyahmad99]

@ricefarmer1point6 My fish are terrified of the thunderstorm setting so I can't use it. 😫

[@temushin]

@@Stacyahmad99 Have you tried accompanying it with dubstep and amphetamines?

[@ricefarmer1point6]

@@Stacyahmad99 my wife’s guppies, betta X-ray tetras and danios don’t seem to care lol

[@BentleyPascoe]

Thanks for the shout out MD! I like your review and about the only thing I would say is Fluval has a suspension kit online, they just don't really inform you it's out there. I fully agree with a riser kit or just including the suspension kit would be a massive improvement.

[@MDFishTanks]

No probs Bentley. In the price bracket, it should def be included. either suspension on riser. (i think the riser is more preferable as not everyone wants or can make holes in the ceiling).

[@michellekahn7364]

You can get risers for about £15 off Etsy but I don’t like how bright it makes my whole room so I’ve got mine low down on the tank instead

[@napaquatics3639]

@michellekahn7364 exactly why fluval lights are outdated . A real light like chihiros comes with shades.

[@nayandhir5910]

I got the fluval 3.0 plant light but need help with the lighting settings, so badd I got a 20g tank with a nice co2 system

[@RvndKilljoyRaj]

I'm a marine biologist from Malaysia, indubitably a massive fan of you & your videos. You're such a joy to watch, your videos are day-makers.

[@MDFishTanks]

thank you. What an amazing job you have.

[@cooliipie]

Indubitably 😂

[@richardcreates]

I have a fluval light on each tank. The timing feature and being able to adjust lighting intensity by each color is amazing. It's helped me balance out algae in my tank. And sometimes I'll turn it to other modes to view the tank in a different light. Wish I got this as my first light and didn't waste money.

[@AquariumAficionado]

Feel that last part I’ve bought a coralife seascape led for my 55G and my 10G but I didn’t like how you can’t control the brightness when it’s on the program. And if you adjust the brightness while the program is running it won’t turn off until you press any other button, which means it will be on until you notice it’s not turning off. Not much cheaper in comparison to a fluval light, other than build quality. But for a few more bucks you get the solid, brighter, super customizable, plant based designed option. 18” coralife-$99 in store 18” fluval - $139 in store 48”coralife -$199 48” fluval -$229 The second I plugged in the fluval I knew i had made a mistake with the prior 2 Now I’m stuck trying to sell them or get store credit for them to buy the bigger, badder fluval $300 WASTED in my eyes I’ll only ever see about a 40-60% return in total toward the new fluval lights My bad for the rant but you can see why lol

[@AquariumAficionado]

ALSO my 10g with the coralife has hairgrass that hasn’t really grown or spread at all, yet I have hairgrass in my fluval betta tank that after two days of being transplanted has already shot up a runner an inch away from it🚨🫣 night and day difference with the plant growth

[@ianhanley5626]

Hi. I have this light on a 4 foot tank and totally agree that it needs to be raised to achieve adequate front to back coverage. I have done this by sitting an acrylic block with a channel cut from the bottom end onto the tank rim. The top end of the block is narrowed to fit the light attachment. Totally agree fluval should be providing this option. Other irritation is that if light goes off in a power cut it doesn’t restart unless you ‘blue tooth ‘ it. Not great if you’re away on your hols! One other word of warning to anyone using it on a new sparsely planted tank. I would suggest starting at , perhaps, as little 30% max intensity and gradually increasing . Otherwise you’re likely to get an algae explosion. Keep up the great work

[@nyantoasty7579]

I've actually been using a shorter version of this light for over a year, and like you, I disliked how close to the (clear glass) top of the tank it was. We actually ended up 3D printing some risers that fit just inside the built in plastic bits, and just over the plastic rim of the tank; it wouldn't be difficult at all to redesign them to work with a rimless one. Honestly I think you'd have fun with a 3D printer; you can make all kinds of great stuff for your tanks, so long as you ensure you have the wet pet safe filament! My partner has designed a skimmer box that works with a regular HOB or canister, and I've also seen some really fascinating designs for plant holders and hideable supports to make cave-style scapes. It could be a really interesting tool for helping you make even more interesting scapes in the future!

[@prshuffle]

YES!!! I run mostly Fluval Aquaskys and a Plant 3.0 and I have the same opinion! The lights are just too close to the water column and they do not cover the whole surface really well. I was also literally talking with my dad about this yesterday so we could come up with an idea on raising it. What a perfect timing and I loved your solution. I agree that at the price it should come with an option for higher brackets for more cover.

[@shahrukhhossainrian8398]

Hey MD, just wanted to let you know you inspired me to make planted aquariums and learnt soo much from you .. Thank you !! ❤️

[@sildaalmeijer9980]

Me to actually haha ! Keep it up !

[@wafri100]

same here!!!

[@MDFishTanks]

thanks for saying guys. Glad you like the channel.

[@markkinnersley5134]

And me soon as I seen Md doing all his tanks it made me start buying tanks and I'm addicted now lol

[@mackmay3834]

I also started one because of you lol

[@darylcavanagh3977]

Purchased this light about 6 months ago. Run a 4ft medium planted non co2 tank. Think its am excellent product. I only need to run it on half power as any more produces too much algae. Set mine up for sunrise and sunset mode. Its a great mid range light. Great review as ever MD. Love your channel 👍

[@Pipspets91]

I have the fluval aqua sky that came with my tank and really like it. Now I've got my settings at 80% red 25% blue 25% green and 40% white I don't get many algea problems and my plants are growing really well I love the fact that they are timed with the sun rise and sunset mode too

[@Sean3D2Y]

Happy to hear the Aquasky is working well for you and growing your plants. Just got 2 Aquaskys for my 125 gallon tank I'm setting up, going to be moderately planted. the Fluval 3.0 are just a bit too expensive to get 2 of atm.

[@Pipspets91]

@@Sean3D2Y I imagine 2 of those will do you just fine in that tank for now I only have 1 and its not even up as high as it can go and I get alot of growth on my plants and I've only got "slow growers"

[@Sean3D2Y]

@@Pipspets91 That's Good. The 2 Lights light the tank very well. Some other Comments mention something on Etsy that raises it to give you better coverage.

[@kreabea78]

I had a fluval tank for years and a very crude first version of led lights with sunrise and sunset options. No app, just endless settings that took hours and hours to setup. But the result was amazing. I loved watching the light go on slowly. I think you'll enjoy this one, I love the app.

[@kaleun303]

You can dim your cheap lights with a cheap H801 LED controller. I've been doing this with some Chihiros and even an older Fluval LED bar. I use it to turn on the lights in the morning, simulate cloud cover and dim out in the evening. Fish love it!

[@FreezingFaces]

“Youngies light” it looks to me you have bought a customer return, and they have “re-sealed/re-packaged it”

[@Saltiren]

Thought so too

[@jonwebb5241]

I went thru cheap lights over the last couple of years, all LEDs. Finnex was programmable but so finicky to adjust that I have to drag out the instructions every time I adjust it. Fluval on my 75 gallon tank is brilliant! Very easy to program with my phone, lovely color mix, plants growing beautifully (no CO2). Highly recommend. And all those crappy lights would have paid for this one. Cheers!

[@pobster88j94]

I have two of these and while I liked them initially, I’m not a fan of the orange or yellow tone compared to a Chihiros. Also the coverage as you stated is not great. I think fluval needs to revisit the light a bit if they want to compete with all the new options these days. I liked your flood lights over the fluval honestly.

[@MDFishTanks]

The floods give a more green tone similar to the chihiros and I guess ADA. Sometimes I think that's a good look in terms of design. But in terms of reality, it can look a bit synthetic...but then we keep fish in glass boxes sooooo.....🤣

[@madsteff1097]

Have this light about 2 years now above an aquarium that is placed in the living room. You can buy brackets for it to easily hang te light above the aquarium. The biggest advantage i find with this light is that you create a sunset and sundown. The nice thing about this is that you can extend the time to see your aquarium without creating alge caused by too much lighting. Especially in the evenings this is less intrusive. Keep up the good work. Greetings from the Netherlands

[@madsteff1097]

Saw there was already a similar comment 🤦‍♂️

[@lauradellinger5272]

absolutely love my Finnex Planted+ 24/7. I've had killer growth with co2 injection, no ferts. No algae issues at all.

[@matthewray5954]

To be fair that tank you put it on is pretty wide. Looks at least 24 inches wide if you had 2 of those over that tank it would look perfect. Even with buying 2 of them its still not that expensive. Not budget friendly but for a main display its ok to spend a little more money on equipment. Awesome video Bruv love the channel. Positive and easy going atmosphere and informative and interesting. Well done with the whole channel 🎉

[@PlantedElement]

I've had this light for my 60cm tank and I got the hanging kit and set it up on my diy light stand. I'm not gonna lie, it looks clean. Definitely helps with the spread. The sunrise and sunset, built in timer, are big sells for me. I love this light that it doesn't empty my wallet.

[@matthewsmith6374]

They can be used on open tops and they do a hanging kit, so can be mounted in a couple ways, including to clamps on the glass for high energy tanks . You could get the clips and hang it from your rail. Watch having all the colours up high as you’ll probably get algae, especially if you have watched the Bentley videos blues are strong on these lol . The cheap lights you use with the whiter light works well for your tanks

[@MDFishTanks]

this should be included in my opinion and another option that does require putting holes in the ceiling 🤣🤣 yeah, i put it back to the auto mode. Taken it off now as the lighting on that tank is sorted. I think I might use it on the new build in the old discus tank.

[@matthewsmith6374]

@@MDFishTanks you love drilling holes lol, agree for the cost of the unit more mounts should be included, who know they might listen to you , but just saying there are options and they can also be mounted to a clip on style light again like you say you have to buy more though, weirdly I think the aqua sky ones come with some kit .

[@cathrynlisa]

I don't have the option of hanging mine from the ceiling - it's currently precariously balanced on the edge of a shelf one side, and a planter on the other. Not ideal!

[@matthewsmith6374]

@@cathrynlisa as stated you can also mount them to a clip that goes on your aquarium. If you know the clamp for the more spot light style ones ,fluval did a video on it for the light I think, or I think I seen a frame you can get for generic lights that you can then hang a light from, not sure that’s ideal though depending on space etc and what tank you have .it’s worse with aquarium with lids like one of mine as you don’t have the luxury of raising it your limited or having to get two if you want the spread , and then dimming them both because it’ll be to powerful , so you can’t win😂. Although as Md said it’s all at extra cost though

[@Alibabs92]

@@cathrynlisa i was thinking about getting this light and use my chihiros steel stand to mount it higher. Check them out maybe what you are looking for

[@SeventyRS]

I have two of the fluval 3.0 lights and I love them. My plants and fish are all doing great. No algae issues. The preset selections are nice and if you choose to you can adjust everything independently and create your own lighting and schedule. Highly recommended. I have the Fluval nano 3.0. It has a height adjustable mounting bracket.

[@neilf4128]

Thanks for this video. I purchased these lights back in August of 2021. I bought two, for front and back. My tank is 26" tall, 24" by 24" Cube. My plants grow well, and I set my Fluval to Pro Light setting. When I noticed algae growing, I simply shortened the amount of hours it was on. But my growth has been explodingly amazing. The only down side I could find with these lights, other than cost, is the power cord connection is finicky, and can suddenly loosen up and disconnect with a slight touch of the cord when doing under tank maintenance. When that happens, I have to reset the blue tooth connection, which is super easy, but still annoying. All said, I am really happy with them.

[@AquariumAficionado]

Just “knot”your cords together and then plug them in It’ll never get unplugged The cable would rip before it unplugs

[@AquariumAficionado]

Use this trick when connecting hanging cables or extension cord or appliances. They use it in construction so when they yank the cord for more length it doesn’t come undone.

[@carolebraswell982]

Thank you for this product review! Arter following you for over a year now, I have 8 tanks... and I was glad to find out I could use budget lights and still grow great plants.

[@MDFishTanks]

haha. 8 Carole lol. might as well round it up to 10!!!! 😂😂

[@nayandhir5910]

I got the fluval 3.0 plant light but need help with the lighting settings, so badd I got a 20g tank with a nice co2 system

[@nayandhir5910]

I got the fluval 3.0 plant light but need help with the lighting settings, so badd I got a 20g tank with a nice co2 system

[@naddyn685]

Big pat on the back MD!! You’ve made me very happy by reviewing this light. I know your tank setups usually have suspended lights and it’s intriguing to see how your plants grow with these lights. I have 2 Fluval Aquasky’s in my 100cm tank. I never know what light intensity is the optimum as no one covers this on KZbin. Trial and error and currently at diatom phase for 1 month post-new planting and now reduced lighting to 40-50%.

[@softaco3088]

Have a 3.0 on my 75g and love it. I'm running it at 80% with c02 and the plants have been going gangbusters. I usually have a grocery bag full of clippings weekly. Your idea with the rises at the side is pretty good.

[@heronnavarro6502]

Nailed it. This light replaced my timer power strip and because I have a planted tank with those GMO rainbow glofish, I can grow plants during the day and get a couple blue hours at night to enjoy the glow.

[@James_NatureAquatics]

What I dislike about the Fluval is the price and build. Also how close they sit in the tank. Breeds algae under it and doesn’t get all 4 corners of the tank as it should. I can buy a Chihiros WRGB for about the same price and get the things missing on the Fluval. I get a brighter light, wider, better build, and same control ability. Plus have a diffuser light that gives better PAR ratings. They are good lights just over priced. Premium price for not quiet premium light.

[@MDFishTanks]

Hi james. The thing is, I was trying to give the review for people that are going to go in the big box stores and pick up what would be considered probably the best in there for growing plants. I don't think they would even know what Chihiros is to be honest. It might be worth me getting one for review. They are more expensive than the Fluval plant for sure and maybe that bit extra would put new planted tank users off? From what im seeing, Chihiros or twinstar seems to be the go to 2nd light as an upgrade.

[@iiMiiNSaNe]

Agreed about the not hitting the 4 corners. Had to super glue brackets to make the lights go higher. Whatever works right?

[@James_NatureAquatics]

@@iiMiiNSaNe if nothing aquascapers are great at diy 😀

[@James_NatureAquatics]

@Esposita should be more clear. If a scape is built high and you also have plants low in the tank. It will breed algae being so close to the tank in the upper part of the scape. Intensity will have to be higher to penetrate to the lower level of the tank. Especially with carpeting plants and such. I don’t use them anymore as I prefer a wider light that sits higher on the tank. I use lights that are more intense. But found if they are 15-20cm above the tank I don’t get the issue with focused light and algae growth issues high in the tank. Light intensity directly correlates to what you are growing and the set up your running.

[@velcapitan]

I have 2 Fluval lights for a 75 gallon and a 40 gallon and I'm very pleased with my purchase. I also have some cheap bargain lights and they basically turn on and off...you can't adjust the brightness...and while functional I think the Fluval lights are worth the extra expense.

[@TheFarminMusician]

Here's my experience, I have four plant 3.0's on different tanks. For light they all work great in fact the highest I have them run at is 70% (blue at 5%) in my heavily planted tanks. They work great. The cons are that they have a little bit of a high pitched frequency that I can hear from about five feet away (the higher the light is turned up the louder it is), if the power goes out you have to go in your app and communicate with each light for it to revert back to its timer and power settings. (Takes a while when you have eight lights between fluval sky and plant. If you fail to do this the timer will believe the time is midnight when they turn back on and potentially put your light cycle out of wack.

[@lauren-ru6tw]

I have the Fluval Plant Nano, and I have to agree with the point about it being annoying when the power goes out and then having to connect to the light again. I’ve been away for a couple of weeks with family doing water changes on the tanks at home. The fluval light was unplugged during a water change and didn’t come back on. It was only later that I realised it couldn’t turn on because I have the FluvalSmart app on my phone, so it wasn’t in range to reconnect. The tank with that light is temporarily using a cheap clip-on one until I can go back home and set it up again. A minor inconvenience, but overall it’s a great light.

[@phantomsquall1]

Came to your video just looking at something I already own but have not opened yet (Setting up a 75gallon). Your presentation was informative and comical - and real world, "I'm a man, we struggle first THEN eventually revert to the manual." Subscribed, well done !

[@TheHavnmonkey]

I have the Fluvial Planted Nano on my 9gal and 5gal. I bought them for their adjustability and built in timer via the app. I have them tuned down so none of the channels over 25% which means I have plenty room to grow if I ever put them on larger tanks. At $70 US they were the same price or bit cheaper than comparable (non-amazon brand) lights I looked at but had the advantage of built in timer/schedule. The schedule is absolutely something I cannot live without and no more clunky timers plugged into the power outlet!

[@shrimshrimma1243]

I found that standard 2x3 lego bricks fit perfectly into the supports on my fluval 2.0s. I just built some risers with lego for mine and it helped with the spread of the lights.

[@mdstmouse7]

great info! thanks!

[@christiankomodo]

I love this light. It's not too difficult to learn the app enough to make the sunset mode keep a really low light for as much time as you want, I love using that as a great nighttime light for my office. I love how instead of just having a light on a timer, which is an abrupt "on" and an abrupt "off", this light has a nice gradual sunrise effect that keeps the fish chill and doesn't scare them the way a sudden change in lighting would.

[@Mike14U2NV]

You are correct. Open too tanks are awesome. I’m saving to get one and start my first aqua scape. Thanks for all the ideas and inspiration. Keep up the good work MD

[@BGN_Aquariums]

I got the fluval 3 light about 4 month ago as my red plants were struggling and I didn’t want to use CO2. it did cost me £200 but it was a great investment. Red plants are now popping

[@MDFishTanks]

ok that's good to know. Obviously i've not tested long term use, but having looked at how the light was on my rainbow aquarium, I figured the reds would pop a lot more and continue to over time.

[@jangalangfish]

I have mine suspended about 8 inches over my tank and it seems to give the best results. Love the videos!

[@johnnyramos2339]

Brother I like how you keep it simple and informative. Would love more products reviews. Love the channel. Keep up the great work. Thanks MD

[@nebilkhaffaf6605]

Thanks for the review, i bought same light before 1,5 month and it's working great. I have same issue like other distance between the light and the aquarium. As i see in the comments there's solution to the issue. The light perfect for the red planets in the aquarium.

[@Cichlid_4_ever]

I bought one for a 20 high didn’t grow carpeting plants all that well but I LOVE THE timer setting and color. It’s amazing.

[@twunderaquatics1770]

I have two of these lights. I also do not like the spread on these. I also agree Fluval needs to have a stand or a way to raise this light. This video was spot on. 👌

[@JeffBeefjaw]

These fluval lights give gorgeous light are very well made, very different if you are used to high over head. They are great at giving dynamic light and shadow. If there was a height spacer they would be even better. Costly, waterproof (yeah dropped mine in a few times) I have 2 of the full colour on daylight cycles 1 on an old fluval studio tank another on an open top they are very powerful and i only use mine on 30%. The app is pretty clever uses Bluetooth. MD give Fluval some notes. I also have the same cheaper lights on other tanks, tbh as long as they are putting out 6/7k your fine. People think to much about lights. They are all a muchness these days, down to function, design and price. Your aquatic life is what you love to see. Just my thoughts as someone that has some of those lights. Thank you MD hope this helps others with their choices

[@sanctuarydelete6-6-6]

im using the 3ft version of this on a heavily planted 40g breeder for 8 months now , love it

[@Vidslistchannel]

Hey MD, you actually inspired me to take videos of myself walking into rooms. I used to just walk into rooms in a boring way but now i mix it up. Thank you! 😆

[@harshtruth9148]

I went to go buy this in 48" until I saw the $270 price tag....I bought the aquasky 2.0 from Fluval instead....does the job fine for plants

[@cayteowands]

The colours on the fluval are amazing. The rainbows have so much more colour🥰

[@sparkymark68]

I have the previous fluval light, the fresh and plant 2.0. It's on my 240 planted tank and its OK. The best results I've ever had with plants is with budget lights.

[@k9feces]

The mounting is why I bought a Chihiros and run it at 50% intensity.

[@adamthemeep]

On the cheap vs expensive light thing. I think for freshwater tanks and planted tanks like this channel features unless you want the timers/sunrise and sunset functions, there's no real reason for expensive lights. In my opinion the only time when expensive lights are just better is dealing with saltwater reefs with live corals. Of course use what you prefer because in the end you're the one who deals with it but thats my two cents

[@porcu12345]

The customisation options in the app, the build quality and the very long returns warranty are the main standouts. I've had some budget lights die out within a month or two. They always have terribly short warranties for that reason. The Fluval *will* last ages. It copes with accidental water spills and even keeps working if you drop it in the tank by mistake. The app is great too. You can really customise the light spectrum to your liking, even as low as 1% increments for each colour. Light intensity can be set to change at specific times of the day, cloud cover simulations that dim LEDs periodically and the sunrise/sunset mode showcases fish behaviours you won't get usually. Once it's set up, you just forget it and let it do its thing.

[@amandajoanbaker]

I have the same height issue on a tank with a glass lid using a nicrew light - would be great if more lights came with risers.

[@hdetail]

So glad you've uploaded this, I've always used cheap amazon lights, but the last year I've looked at the fluval plant light on and off. Feel like I'll get a more true to me review from this video

[@jeanie4186]

Love love love your style, your DIY nature, how you enjoy “the challenge of low budget“ -your open top tanks are dreamy-I can keep fish alive but not plants. My tank went hoodless long ago but the cat plunged in so now I’m stuck with it covered.

[@jamessaltern2866]

Hey bud..the red spectrum is proven to grow algae..you only need a very small amount of red on the light to make the colour pop ! Id be reducing that ! ..i havnt used the fluval you have so i maybe a bit out . Love your ram tank 👌. Makes me want to swap my reef out and go back to freshwater.

[@terilynemarroquin8050]

Big kudos to Matt☺ really knows his stuff and is very nice and information. Just felt he deserved a shout out.

[@brianfoshee2775]

Plenty of Etsy shops offer 3d printed risers for this light that work very well and you can pick your height. I have mine on 2 inch risers on a 20gal long and it's perfect.

[@elliotsimpson3591]

IIRC, these lights come with 120* spread LEDs, which is pretty damn high to find LEDs with THAT wide of an angle AND that much light output - usually it's a tradeoff one or the other. Agreed that height gets you more spread, but I think it's also important to take into account the tank you put this one is SUPER wide

[@bugman1nascar]

I have a light from the same company, on an open tank...cost me a bit but was worth it ....plants grow good and I love the app. It's set on pro setting

[@seanmorrissey2499]

I run 3 of these lights on my various tanks and just purchased some risers from a 3rd party on Etsy. They ran about $13.00 USD each and are acrylic. Cant wait to see how they look

[@ALKaorix]

Thank you for doing this, I was wondering if you can tell me if the light that comes with the fluval flex 32.5 gallon the aquasky to see if it’s nice too and if it grows red plants.

[@theroninrenofficial9058]

Had this light for a year, absolutely love it. Even bought the nano tank model for one of my smaller tanks. The app is wonderful. Definitely would like to see an update from ya in a few months on plant growth and what not. Long time fan of the channel. Can't wait to get my thicc Cory shirt

[@juiced6794]

Im glad I found this video! I am currently planning a planted tank build and didn't find much on lighting. I normally set up reef tanks and the amount of info on lighting in dizzying at times. Thanks for the enlightenment!

[@alfredodeeric]

Hey I'm Eric, I have 5 fish tanks going now. I would hopefully like to start my own channel someday. I have this light on my planted 55. Been running for about 2 months now things seem to be going good. I just wanted to say you've quickly become one of my favorite channels. Your funny and informative, and your tanks are absolutely brilliant! Keep up all the good work, and I'll keep watching!

[@575garden]

I'm currently in the market for a new light and the only thing preventing me from taking the plunge with the Fluval is the lack of risers. You are absolutely right, Fluval have missed a massive trick not offering them. Why unnecessarily close yourself off to a section of a market you are trying to entice?.

[@Zulizu17]

Rainbows look great! If you want them to colour up more try a black substrate and a black background. The lightness of your substrate is drowning out their colours just a tad!

[@jamesborda]

My new favourite KZbinr 😁👍🏼

[@DavidWalling]

I recently put this light on my tank as well. I had the same issue with the light's coverage from front to back. I debated a lot of either lifting the light or picking up a second one. I chose to pick up a second light. My thinking is that I can always turn down the intensity of the lights. I've enjoyed spending time adjusting the sunrise/sunset timings to get the colors I like. It also allows me to have the lights on a really low setting in the morning. My office desk is next to my tank and it's nice having the lights on at least a little the entire time I'm working.

[@anthonyt9380]

I returned my fluval for that very reason and got a chihiros wrgb at around the same price. First thing I noticed is it's way wider than the fluval 3.0 not to mention a lot brighter. It's fully customizable with the app you download to phone. My plants have been going crazy for 2+ years now and I'm only running on 60% output. Just note I'm also using pressurized CO2 and dosing regularly.

[@glenj4908]

Hope you continue to use the light and we get to hear your review 6-7 months from now. Great videos.

[@anyal5656]

Hi MD, I love your videos! You should make a video ranking your top five aquariums or all time or currently. I think that would be a cool video ☺️

[@-EJ00]

I have been using the 26w hygger plant 24/7 . Cheap and really good

[@ranzwocket3119]

These are like the marmite of lights. People either love them or hate them. I've got one on my nature aquarium and like the color rendition it gives and it does grow well for me in my high tech in my Flex 123

[@MDFishTanks]

yeah I can understand why. Colour is really nice. but most aquascapers want their lights to be part part the "show". That's why I tried to be unbiased and not see it just as an aquascaper.

[@warpo007]

yeah love your DIY flood lights. They might not have any customisation but they are in the correct wavelength for growing plants. We are just suckers for shiny things.

[@endoroboto]

I just got a Finnex ALC 24/7 light the other day, my first experience with the 24/7 lights. If you are a person that finds yourself changing the color and brightness constantly, do yourself a favor and get a light like this that is programmable. I like the Finnex default 24/7 cycle, but being able to customize it is amazing. My favorite times are sunrise and sunset when the light is nearly orange.

[@brianp2707]

I've been running a 3.0 on my 75 planted for a few years now. It's not overly expensive. Sort of middle of the road price wise. Their Aquasky seems to be a very popular freshwater light as well

[@alisonnicholson]

Ooo what's this? *random bit of card gets chucked on the floor* Haha MD 🤣 love your honesty and random bloopers. Some fish keepers would edit those out but it's safe to say I always look forward to your videos. Love your channel, your scapes are gorgeous and I love the fact you keep things on a budget. A true inspiration

[@GrumpyGillsFishing]

*turns blue light to 100%* “Yeah we definitely won’t get algae” Famous last words of an aquascaper

[@msbranen6261]

Hi MD! Would you consider extending your review of the light to see how well it grows plants in comparison to your budget lighting? Thx!

[@somethingsfishy7662]

I have a Fluval Aquasky on my 20 gallon high tank (my first ever fish tank). I have never really had a problem with lack of plant growth or algae in this tank. I bought a Fluval 3.0 for my 2nd tank, a 40 gallon breeder, and I can't seem to get the right adjustment with the light settings and have struggled with lackluster of plant growth and algae. If I had to do it all over again I would have went with an Aquasky on the 40g breeder. I think it is the better light for a low tech tank, IMO.

[@annaturba]

I love you for not taking yourself too seriously. 👍🏼

[@Brad-mf5wl]

I have three of Fluval 3.0 of them and also have a budget ade-500. I agree Fluval doesn't have a good spread at the outer ends. That's something I noticed when I got my first one. However, I believe it's in design issue that hopefully, Fluval will address on their next one. What makes this shine, is customization, even if you have to spend a little more than its competitors.

[@jimsimmons9082]

Love the channel and watching the builds. You've inspired me to attempt my own and I'm loving it so far. I got the smaller Fluval for my 4 gal open tank and it's awesome. Really like the ease of set up and functionality. Also, that particular version has a riser so you don't have the same issue with spread.

[@James-ye7rp]

The blue color at night is absolutely incredible. Love this light.

[@hpdutra]

“You raise me up 🎵 🎼 “ hahahah cracked me up

[@MayYourGodGoWithYou]

One solution to the coverage problem could be to attach it to the rail you are currently using for your floodlights, Cable ties at either end might do the trick, and that would solve the lighting all the tank part. But carefully looking at Fluval v Floodlights and I actually prefer the floodlights. I think they look much more like the natural light would for that neck of the woods. But if you are more focused on the fish and being able to change colours because the tank is in the living room then I could see how a light like this would probably be the best solution. I don't like tanks that are lit with coloured lights, and I kept my most successful planted tank - no filter, no water changes, lasted 5 years until we moved - literally on a sideboard under the dining room window which faced due south (Ireland). No lighting needed at all. Am debating whether I can replicate that where I'm now living, have a large china planter and I'm going to give it a try. Again, in front of huge south-west facing windows. Really like your tanks, any chance you could do a fully planted cold water tank for fish that can easily survive in temperatures down to about 10deg in winter but warm in summer. With grasses (want papyrus again as it was a great choice the first time around) and other plants that need roots in water but also grow out of the top naturally. Like a British/Irish stream, complete with suitable fish. Great video as always, your tanks always brighten up my week. Greetings from Ireland.

[@robertgagne9355]

I only a couple tanks, and they are set up in my living spaces, so I like them to look a bit more upscale. I don't have a Fluval light but I do have actual LED aquarium lighting, which looks very nice IMO. There are many choices and price points, from online retailers and there is more than looks that can determine value. I do like this particular light and most likely it is worth the cost in comparison to the lower spec lights on the market. I agree with you there should be some mounting options. I do use Fluval products and have to say they have one of the best customer service departments I've had to deal with. So for that alone the added cost is justifiable.

[@apolnicki]

Blows my mind how amazing your fish room looks. Keep the videos coming

[@tHojthOp]

I had to choose between getting a 40$ 96W WRGB and an 10$ 100W industrial LED light when I first started my 40 gal tank. Went with the WRGB and didn't regret. Plant growth would have been the same but the wrgb's ability to fake out beautiful colors makes my tank looks way better. I know it sounds too cheap to be true but in here, the hobby is quite affordable as everything is much cheaper than the UK, for ex. 30$ would get you like 150 cardinal tetras.

[@seandyke4363]

Hello. I am looking desperately for the exact clip on light above the Blue Acara fish tank in this video. Do you or your subscribers have a link? Live in the US. Thx!!!

[@SuperHooverdam]

I had a fluval on a 55g. US. I noticed the same thing with the shading towards the front or back. Unfortunately I lived where I couldn’t put cables to lift it up and never thought of raising it. I grew all kinds of plants except for ground and when I bought another it became algae central. Wondered what it would’ve been like if I would’ve raised the light? Oh well.. looks good. It’d be nice if they had a dimmer switch on it.

[@cullinf2077]

I bought a Fluval light for one of my 10 gallons to try out and I love all the features, but I thought the same thing about being able to raise the light. Fluval are you listening? Thanks for another great video MD

[@SomePotato]

I have a Plant 3.0, and I'd say it's only worth it if you want to make use of the customization. If you just want the wattage and can live with a simple timer, you can safe quite a lot.

[@TheFishyChaz]

Do you find that LED Light placement is better towards the front of the tank for bringing out the colours of the fish?

[@andrewgpayne]

Had a Fluval Plant light on my open top but like you, I couldn't find a mounting solution that worked to get the correct spread of light. Swapped it out for an AI Prime 16HD Freshwater which although more expensive has been flawless and well as easier to mount properly.

[@craigquinn8225]

iv had the exact same problems with my fluval as you had with coverage. so I ended up buying a budget light. which I love. but fluval is very good for growing plants. just not enough spread. and all my tanks are open top

[@dcime1]

My new favorite thing about these are the drop in price due to over sourcing and lower demand!

[@jasongrimshaw-smith8369]

13:20, absolutely, they are missing a trick. I have the plant 3.0 nano. Even on a 30ltr cube, I find its max height is too close tp the waters surface. Seems to be the same for other brands and Chinese brand less. But the nonbranded usually have brackets that come out and you can buy 3rd party brackets on ebay and amazon. Thanks for making this vid. With exception of this missing option, plant 3.0 is great. The aquael smart leddy 2 is cheaper but not bluetooth, and achieves great growth too (cinescaper used 2 on his buddha aquarium)

[@BrookleyBell]

@MD Fish Tanks I just bought a 3D/clear acrylic printed riser for my Fluval 3.0 light & it is amazing! I wish I would have gotten the 4" or 5" though. I got the 3" for my 40 gallon breeder. I have a horrible algae problem that I am basically starting over on. I pulled all the plants last night. Scrubbing my hardscape today, gravel vac repeatedly until all the dead hair algae is gone, then re-planting. Probably really messed up with this choice, but I am one person, OCD/ADHD & I panicked & this is where I am now 🤦🏼‍♀️

[@twitchew0lve]

I love the programming aspect of the Light. I can run my lights from 9am in the morning to 2am after midnight with no issues or algea as i can dim them lower. So i can enjoy my tank all day long compared to those lights that run full power for a set time. Though...i bought a new LED for a quarantaine tank that did cost me 40 buks that comes with dimming and even a timer for 6/8/12h and even 3 Light settings so yeah might be overprized but it has the app and has a better water protection as the cheap one. I asked a PVC craftsman to make me some Stands for me after my Design and now i have some nice Transparent shiny Stands that raises the Light for around 10cm as the narrow lightcone makes it mandatory if you have a deep tank or you have to get 2 of em. The biggest advatnage for me that this light has is...i can adjust each color seperatly...and aslo i can see my fish for all day long while other fishkeepers tank have their lights dark in the morning, evening or middday so they can see the tank later...i could literally nearly turn it on for all 24h if i dim it right lol...ofc i wouldnt cause fish need some darker times to chill and relax hehe...not sure if they sleep?

[@aydensnider703]

anybody got any advice on how to do this with a rimmed tank that has a lid(that I can take off, I keep it there incase I have any jumping corys). Its got one of those black plastic connectors down the middle as well, basically tryna raise the fluval light without the cieling suspenders and find a better top.

[@victormarsh5656]

Great channel btw, I apologize if this was suggested/mentioned already. I wonder if the light was tilted so that is shined towards the back a little more. You would need to shim up the back part of the current mounts but I am guessing it might light up the back better without loosing too much in front. Keep up the great work!