Lighting Questions

[JohnS]

I have some newbie lighting questions: Right now we are using Satellite Dual lights, 4 x 65W 10K/Actinics. I want to get more light in the tank but don't know that I am prepared to go with metal halide. Apart from cost, my reluctance to mh is the fact that you need to hang them above the tank. My tank has a nice cherry hood on it that I would hate to have to remove to add light (the current lights rest on the glass, concealed nicely).

I'm sure I know the answer to my first question but I'll ask anyway. Is there any point in adding a second identical fixture? I'm thinking two 10K's don't add up to one 20K but hey who knows. My second question is does anyone know if I can replace my existing 10K bulbs with 20K bulbs? And finally, are you aware of any mh lights that have a low profile and could be placed under the existing hood?

TIA!

 

[tripper]

I think I can answer both of your questions.

1) If you get a second identical fixture, you will be doubling your watts/gallon which would be excellent. I don't know that you will have enough room under your hood to fit two of those fixtures though . . . I have the same one.

2) There are some low profile MH hoods. I just bought the Coralife hood that has 2 150W MH bulbs and 2 96W actinic PC bulbs. I am not positive that it would fit under your hodd but it might.

If you are looking for a second Current USA Satellite fixture, let me know. I am not using mine anymore and would be happy to sell it to you. It's 5 months old. I'm in Philly if that helps. PM me if you're interested.

tripper

 

[Jason]

2) There are some low profile MH hoods. I just bought the Coralife hood that has 2 150W MH bulbs and 2 96W actinic PC bulbs. I am not positive that it would fit under your hodd but it might.

hows the heat on that thing?

**edit** I found where you answered that in another thread.... 80 at "night" and 81-82 during the "day" thanks for the info!! I know what light I'm getting for my 72 bowfront now!!

 

[captivereefs]

WHy not pick up (2) coralvue 250 watt MH retro kits at $190 each and add 14K bulbs? You can bolt them to your existing canopy and add more light and not have to remove the canopy.