MH, VHO Lighting and Glass Top

[geek]

OK, I just got my new 220 gallon tank and I am going to be using my 75 gallon tank as my sump for the new tank. My new tank has overflows built in and is also predrilled. I have a new set of Metal Halide lights (3 x 250 Watt) and also some VHO lighting in one unit. I also have a 3 section glass top that completely covers the top of the 220 DT and I'm sure that it would help limit the amount of evaporation that I get, but should I use it with the lights that I have? If it makes a difference, I am going to be using this as a reef tank.

 

[travis89]

No, you should leave the glass tops off. You will have a lot of problems with heat if you don't. If you get fish that jump, then use either egg-crate or fiberglass screen to cover the tank.

 

[geek]

I'm not sure if it makes a difference, but I am also putting this tank into a wall in my bedroom and the oposite side of the wall is a large walk in closet, which even in the summer is the coldest room inthe house as it has no windows, but there's vents installed for the housewide heat/cold exchange. Additionally, we live in Maine so it's pretty cool here most all of the time. I don't think that heat would be a problem, but would there be any reason besides heat not to have the glass tops on?

 

[nycbob]

i'd take the part of the glasstop off where its under the bulbs. heating will be an issue even if ur room temp is 65-70. even with the top off, u still might need a chiller. try having a fan blow air across the top of the water surface.

 

[zman1]

Leave the glass tops off - evaporative cooling will aid in some heat transfer for the radiant heat caused by the lighting. A fan would also help as memtioned.