MH...To much for a 55?

[slim]

I am picking up 2ea 250watt MH and VHO(not sure of wattage) for my 55gal. I am looking to keep sps, lps and softys. Right now it is a FOWLR tank.
The questions I have are these.
1. Is this to much light?
2. What should the photo period be?
3. How far from the surface should I place them?
I am going to be making DIY hood.

 

[fedukeford]

no thats a good amount of light, i would do :
7 am- vhos on
8 am- mh's on
7 pm- mh's off
8 pm-vho's off
it should be around 8 inches of the water for good air flow

 

[clown52]

Very nice! I can't wait to get MH. I got a 400w but found out that's to strong for a standard 55.

 

[crzyfshygy]

Originally Posted by Clown52
Very nice! I can't wait to get MH. I got a 400w but found out that's to strong for a standard 55.
Thats not two strong....I know a guy who has a 400watt in a 44gl and it has some awesome SPS and Clams.