Is a 400 watt metal halide too much for a 36 gallon tank?

ty_05_f

ty_05_f

Active Member
You might have some major heat issues. If you are going to go SPS corals I would go ahead and do it, but for just softies I would keep the 175watter. Maybe a 250 watt hqi would be in you best intrest a median of the two.
 
chamic1

chamic1

Member
The general rule for lighting is 5 watts per gallon. I would say 400 watts is too much for a 36gallon tank. You would save money if you cut back the wattage (less electricity is being used); however, if you are planning to upgrade one day, you just may need 400 watts for your new tank, it's your call!:yes:
 
boomper

boomper

Member
I run a 250 HQI on my 29 about a foot above the water, I dont have heat problems and the light permiates everywhere effectively. This would probably be a good choice for yours as well. You should be able to keep most corals under this intensity.
 
007

007

Active Member

Originally posted by chamic1
The general rule for lighting is 5 watts per gallon.
Just as an FYI . . . watts per gallon is 100% useless and perhaps the worst "guide" to lighting available . . . .
 
chamic1

chamic1

Member
007- The 5 watts/gallon is a guideline I'v read about. So if it is not the best guide, what do you recommend?
 
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