need some input on MH

[staci]

Hey there, we are buying some MH lighting and my husband has done some reading on them, and a few of the articles state that they should be x amount of inches off the glass. I was wondering how you all run yours.
thanks..Staci

 

[zanclus]

I run my 400w MH about 14" off the waters surface. I dont cover my tank with glass...

 

[zeroc]

double ended bulbs need to have special glass over then to filter out the UV light pretty much any double ended setup will come with it, single end bulbs don't product the UV so no glass is needed. I run two 175 single ended bulbs with reflectors. the bulbs are about 7" off the water, i use a 6" clip on desk fan to turn on when the HM turn on and blows across them and the water to reduce heat to the water. if you have fish that like to splash keep them a little higher off the water (if using exposed bulbs) because if they get splashed on the bulbs could shatter. Also don't know if people ever mention this but don't touch the glass part of the bulb with your fingers, the oil in your fingers can cause (probably won't most of the time) the bulb to explode when they get super heated, use a paper towel when screwing them in.

 

[jonthefishguy]

I set my tanks and customers tanks 6 inches about the water.

 

[blemmy_guy]

Usually the legs that come with the lights, are the perfect height!

 

[zeroc]

if you're buying an already made unit. i'm guessing more people go retro because they can customize it and it cost WAY less.