A Quick Power Compact Question

[mike j]

I bought a 60W power compact for my tank and don't have a canopy for it. The guy at the LFS told me that I wouldn't need one and that having a partially open tank would actually be better for gas exchange and covering it would break the spectrum as well. However, the manufacturer of the power compact says never to leave it exposed to the water.
Should I be putting a glass cover of sorts over my tank to cover the lighting or should I leave it exposed to the water?
Thank you very much for any help!

 

[underthesea]

what type of power compact did you but one that I baught said the same thing then my body got the same one and it said that it was ok to have it resting on the rim of the tank.. Do you know if your fixture has water proof end caps?

 

[mike j]

yes, it does, but it still gives the warning...

 

[broomer5]

From a liability standpoint, I can't imagine any aquarium lighting manufacturer saying anything other than installing it over a glass covered tank.
Every lighting fixture instruction/packaging I've ever read says the same thing.
But naturally I've not read them all.
Does this mean that many people don't follow the recommended instructions - Yes
Does this also mean that many people install them over an open tank. I'd say a lot of people do.
Electricity and saltwater tanks go together like gasoline and bic lighters. The potential for disaster is always there.
Leaving it to your best judgement

 

[bbreaux1]

im curious about your post too i think im gonna purchase 2 55w ocs from ahsupply i plan to diy a canopy and leave the back mostly open since i have a prizm and emporer 400 id have to cut around anyways but im trying to find out how high id have to make it so i dont need a cover and i dont have to worry about the bulbs getting wet