200G Lighting & Sump Advice

[nikkita132001]

I am working on the setup of a 48x48x20 tank with a canopy. It came with a 30g sump but the 2 baffles separating 3 comparments on the sump are raised vs lowered so water flows under them.
1. Why would the baffles be placed like that and should I change them?
2. Would MH be to much for the tank depth if mounted in the canopy? I have never used MH before. Top of canopy sits 12" from the top of the tank.

 

[tangs rule]

Quote:
Originally Posted by Nikkita132001 http:///forum/thread/386535/200g-lighting-sump-advice#post_3395888
I am working on the setup of a 48x48x20 tank with a canopy. It came with a 30g sump but the 2 baffles separating 3 comparments on the sump are raised vs lowered so water flows under them.
1. Why would the baffles be placed like that and should I change them?
2. Would MH be to much for the tank depth if mounted in the canopy? I have never used MH before. Top of canopy sits 12" from the top of the tank.
1. The baffles are like that so bubbles generated in the sump float out BEFORE the water gets sucked into the return pump, so the return pump flow in the tank stays bubble free. I'd not change them.
2. MH would do fine - 175 or 250w units should illuminate it well, but 12" is the minimum the bulbs should be above the water - more like 16 - 20 inches is better.
Welcome to the site - looks like a nice setup comming together! did u buy it used?

 

[acrylic51]

Very cool setup!!!!! Agree somewhat on MH height. 12" would be the closest I'd go, but depending on the quality of your MH reflectors will dictate proper mounting height and coverage.
Sump as you described is setup correctly.
An alternative for your lighting could be T5 or LED!!!

 

[nikkita132001]

Thank you! Yes, I bought it used and was able to observe it while it was still operating for several hours to ensure there were no leaks. I'm definately torn on the lights.... there are so many new options. Several people have suggested doing LED's vs MH.
Would love suggestions on preferred brands in both lights?

 

[acrylic51]

If your going with MH I'd recommend either Lumenarc III or LumenBright reflectors. Ballast wise I'd still recommend the old IceCap ballasts. LED several options depending on your wallet. DIY Cree LEDs but there are other LEDs. AquaIlluminations is a very good unit, but pricey, Vertex I another, and from what I've read lately might be a better deal/unit vs the AI (AquaIllumination).