Horticultural MH?

[dudah]

I have a metal halide lighting system that is 400w. It has a Sylvania 400w Metal Arc bulb in it currently.
I originally bought this system about 3 years ago for horticultural use. (no! not THAT kind of weed!!!).
I am going to get a new tank, not sure what size yet, need to save some $$$. But I was wondering if this lighting system, specifically the bulb, would be ok for a reef tank. Is there any risk that it is too high or too low intensity or that it will expose the tank to UV radiation?
If anyone has any experience with this please let me know.
Thanks,
Dudah

 

[reefnut]

First off, remove that link before the mod remove this post...
The bulbs you are referring to are 4200k. A reef tank requires or at least it is recommended to have a 6500k or higher. Preferably a 10,000k or higher. I would imagine that the ballasts would work though.

 

[cboyfan2020]

they sell those bulbs at home depot too. From what I have heard they are the wrong kelvin rating and will cause unwanterd algae growth. I would stick to bulbs meant for the reef aquarium. ---- has some good deals.

 

[dudah]

ReefNut: removed the link! I am still not used to the idea of not being able to include links in the posts...oops! Thanks!
Do you guys have any recommendations on what kind of bulb I should get if I replace the bulb I have but use the same ballast?
Thanks,
Dudah

 

[slick]

Agreed. Throw that bulb in the trash, or closet and get a new bulb. I like 10k or 12k bulbs. You will want to make sure you new bulb is made for aquarium use though.

 

[dudah]

Thx slick! I will see if I can find a good deal on a diff bulb