Would it be cheaper to make lights?

[entice59]

well my dad has a 55 gallon tank with two openings about 21 inches across each one, i dont want halides only power compacts, would it be cheaper if i just made the lighting and make my own hood? or should i just buy the set?
i have no idea about wiring anything.. im also not handy with tools...

 

[entice59]

how about VHO lights, can you guys give me some info on that, i dont know anything about that type of lighting, would it be cheaper, forgot to mention, im probably not going to make it a reef tank since i have one in my room

 

[mrmaroon]

I built my own from wood or old lights. I use CSL retrofits.

 

[lordofthereef]

CSL uses workhorse ballasts. i get them around by me for around ten bucks each. life is sooo much easier when you don't have to pay for aquarium names on someone elses product. you have to go to an industrial electric store for them(the stores contractors use, not home depot). you can also get electronic vho, and MH ballasts from them too for a fraction of the price it would cost you at an aquarium supply store.