Is plexi-glass hazardous over a fish-tank?

Question

Although I have a full hood and light for my 20H gallon freshwater fish tank, I have just added another strip light and in order to accommodate the two strip lights, I've removed the hood and replaced it with a sheet of plexi-glass that simply sits on the top of the tank. I didn't use glass because: 1) it's too expensive to buy a glass hood and 2) it's very brittle and could cause injury if it breaks. As of now, two bare fluorescent strip lights (no glass inlay) sit right on the plexi-glass. I want to know if there is any danger of hazardous chemicals seeping into the tank with water condensing on the underside and the heat of the strip lights on the top of the plexi-glass.

Answer 1

no, it should be fine, although it might be better to have a bit of a gap opening along back side for ventilation, might help with the build up of condensation, i agree you were wise to not use glass.

Answer 2

great idea!!! shouldnt be a problem at all!

Answer 3

No the plexi glass will be a perfect alternative to a fish tank hood!!  I can see where you got the idea of something bad happening, but let an experienced fish hobbyist tell you, fish tank+plexi glass lid= PERFECT MATCH!!!

Answer 4

no plexi-glass is fine and as far as glass hoods go look into a versa hood or top they are 2 pices of glass with a plastic hinge strip in the middle and a back plastic strip you can cut to accomidate the filter and cords and they are not very exspensive plus they are tempered glass so they aren't brittle either they are designed for tanks

Answer 5

I would call someone who sells plexi-glass and/or those bulbs and find out if that's a fire hazard if the bulbs are laying directly on the glass.  I wouldn't risk it.