Metal Halide Problem.

[exile415]

Hi ALL ! I just got these awesome 2x175 MH and 2x96 watt PC and 6x10 watt LED lights, I've set them up and it came with a ballast. My tempature was about 77.6 Degrees (F). Since I've got these MH lights .. The temp has been going up to 83.8 degrees (F) ! I think it's too high. Do you guys agrreee ? or should I leave it. I don't want to get a Chiller because its awfully expensive and I live in San Francisco,CA and it Rarely gets HOT. Pleaes help me out
Thanks
_ERIC

 

[1journeyman]

Put a fan or 2 blowing across the top of the water when the lights are on.

 

[nm reef]

How high off the water surface are your lights....how long are the MH's on...do you use glass ops on your aquarium...do you have adaquate surface agitation...there could be numerous other questions and/or information about your system that could be useful in providing suggestions. A temp of 83 isn't all that critical by itself....many hobbyists maintain a 82-83 degree system....but the range you mentioned may be a source of problems....daily fluctuations of 4-5-6 degrees can be problematic.A good solution could be to use fans blowing across the open water surface....but without specific information about your set up actual suggestions are difficult.

 

[db]

I have 2 x250w MH's over my 72gl and I am able to control the temp with just two small fans. It is also important to get some surface agitation going as well. This will increase evaporation and lower the tank temp. Just put the fans on a timer, so they come on when the MH's come on.

 

[murph]

I don't have any personal experience with MH but my understanding was that they were meant to duplicate noon time lighting on reefs. My lfs that specializes in corals has a nice open tank set up and runs his MH as little as three hours a day and relies on PC for the rest of his lighting schedule. This in itself could be a cure for the heat problem. He also has his MHs what looks like at least three feet above the surface, probably more like four.