Metal Halide Help

bretth7377

bretth7377

New Member
I am setting up a 125gl tank. I am trying to decide on the lighting configuration. I plan to make it a reef tank and I want it to be able to support a few clams on the bottom sandbed of the tank along with coral. My mind is made up that I want Metal Halides, just trying to decide which ones. My LFS is trying to sell me a Hamilton Standard light, are their an opinions on these lights? I noticed a lot of people ask questions about ice caps, how are they? Is it better to go with a premade light or to make it yourself (kit)? I know these are probably differences of opinions, but please give me yours. The tank is in a wall and there is plenty of space above the tank (in the wall for lights), and the walls length is about 6 1/2 ft long.
Thanks in advance!
 
logan15

logan15

Active Member
ok ice caps are probaly the best ballast for VHO and PC but not the best in metal halide ballast in my opinon.If you get metal halides I would say get 3 250 watt metal halides one lamp per 2 feet of tank space you could also get a couple of super actinics.A lot of people like using 10K and higher for Metal Halide.I would go with the 400 watters a lot better for keeping clams towards the bottom and with 400 watters u wont have to keep upgrading if you dont like the 250's.Its cheaper to retrofit it you can find great deals on ----.Retrofits in my experience are usually 30-50% cheaper than whole lights fixtures.Also with retrofits you can customize them.
Hope this helps,
Logan
 
cboyfan2020

cboyfan2020

Active Member
yes retro's are usually much cheaper then the retro's and if you email me i know a site that will let you build your own halide light retro. all the stuff you want and none of the stuff you dont.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Top