Lighting

[jb rekit]

How high are you guys putting your lights above the water?
Right now I have 160w of light about 2-3 in above the water surface but I will be upgrading to 440w VHO and don't want overheating issues. So far I haven't done anything to aid in cooling the water other than not covering the top with glass.
Do you think that I will be ok keeping it that close to the water and maybe adding a fan?
I would like to avoid investing in a chiller.
Tank is a 75 gal.
Thanks
John

 

[bdhough]

3 inches off the water is fine. if you are having issues a fan should take care of them. your tank temp should not exceed 85 degrees. 80 is good number to shoot for.

 

[jb rekit]

Thanks
I guess I should be ok with just a fan then. I am at 80 - 81 degrees right now and was just worried that I might boil my fish by adding 280 watts to what I have now being that low.
John

 

[bdhough]

just try and place the ballast away from the tank. it creates the most heat.