Correct lighting choice

pccharity

pccharity

New Member
I was wondering how to determine how many watts of lighting I need for my 75 gal. tank. Dimensions are 48"L x 20"H x 18"D. I would like to go with MH lighting but would love some input on wattage and the best style of lights and maybe even some good brands.
Also how often to change bulbs.
At the present time I don't have any type of raised canopy, just the glass top and a normal flourescent fixture.
Any info is greatly appreciated. :)
 
reefnut

reefnut

Active Member
WELCOME to SWF.COM PCcharity
As a GENERAL rule the wattage of the MH is based on the depth of the tank...
16"-18" deep -- 175w
18"-24" deep -- 250w
over 24" -- 400w
As with all rules, they can be broken but it's a good basis.
The bulb life really depends on the bulb and ballast. Most MHs are replaced once a year.
Brands, most like PFO... I personally run a cooltouch and it works fine. More important than brand names is ballasts types.
There are three types of MH ballast for SE bulbs. Magnetic Probe start, Magnetic Pulse start and electronic. Electronic are the best IMO, second choice would be a probe start.
For DE bulbs HQI ballasts are needed.
 
weatherdad

weatherdad

Member
I have lighting question reefnut. I am going to set up a 90 gal. tank 24" deep. i would some day like to have crocea clams, is a setup of 2 250w mh and 2 110 vho good for clams?
 
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