A G6 upgrade is not a complete replacement for a failed Radion G5. It changes the LED cluster and lens while retaining the existing heatsink and driver platform. Buy it because it fits the diagnosed problem or an upgrade you want—not because any dark fixture must need new LEDs.
Two checks before spending on a kit
Will it replace the failed part?
A confirmed cluster fault may make the kit worth considering. A driver, fan, power-supply or other retained-component problem needs its own remedy. A dark section or a completely dark light does not, by itself, identify the failed component.
Can the firmware prerequisite be met?
EcoTech requires the firmware update before the physical upgrade. If your G5 will not power on or communicate, ask support how that prerequisite can be met before ordering a kit. Noncommunication does not automatically mean the fixture is beyond repair.
EcoTech’s compatibility guidance allows G5 XR15 to G6 XR15 and G5 XR30 to G6 XR30. Blue-to-Pro and Pro-to-Blue changes are supported within the matching size. It is not an XR15-to-XR30 conversion or a universal kit for older generations.
The official upgrade instructions specify the firmware-first sequence and a new cluster and lens; they explicitly prohibit reusing the original LED lens. A lens-only accessory is therefore not the same purchase as the complete G5-to-G6 upgrade kit.
A faulty aquarium light is not a live test project
Do not repower wet, visibly damaged or overheating equipment to collect symptoms. Do not open a powered fixture or handle electrical connections around water. This guide does not walk through disassembly, supply swapping or live testing. Use EcoTech or qualified service advice for a faulty unit.
Ask for diagnosis before an upgrade recommendation
Report the exact size, generation and Blue/Pro version, what already happened, and any indicator or app message. Note splash, corrosion, overheating or previous work without recreating the fault. A label photo and existing observations are enough to start an inquiry; you do not need to expose the internals.
EcoTech’s red/green fault article discusses driver, fan and power-supply possibilities rather than treating the LED cluster as the default answer. Its US out-of-warranty route describes diagnosis followed by a parts quote, with no charge for technician time. That does not make shipping or the required parts free, or confirm that your unit is repairable.
The useful question is: “Which failed components will this work replace, what hardware remains, and can the required firmware update be completed?” If the answer identifies a fault outside the kit, keep the necessary repair and optional lighting upgrade as separate decisions.
Compare a kit with a complete light—not just two prices
For a concrete same-size example, Bulk Reef Supply lists an XR15 Blue upgrade kit and a complete XR15 G6 Blue fixture. The kit listing includes the cluster and lens; the complete fixture listing also includes a power supply. These links identify the two different products, not a stock promise or a lowest-price recommendation.
Compare the kit plus any separate repairs, installation and freight with the complete replacement’s delivered cost. Check what mounting equipment you can retain and what the offer includes. Do not use an XR15 price to justify work on an XR30. An inexpensive used fixture also needs a credible condition description, complete power-supply details and return terms.
A kit leaves the retained hardware’s condition unchanged. That can be reasonable for an otherwise sound G5, but less attractive if multiple components need work. Plan suitable lighting for the aquarium during service; this guide cannot promise a safe blackout period, coral response or repair turnaround.
Before sending the light for service
EcoTech’s RMA form is for US end users. Customers pay inbound freight and, outside warranty, return freight. Obtain the RMA and confirm what to send before shipping; international owners should use their regional support route.
Read the intake acknowledgment, not just the quote. It says a device may be deemed abandoned if you do not respond or otherwise contact the provider within 30 days of its attempted communication, and may then be disposed of. Monitor estimate and payment messages and resolve any questions promptly.
Sources checked November 2, 2026. This is a source-based buying and service guide, not hands-on diagnosis or a claim that the linked businesses are Mad Labs partners.
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