55 Gallon Lighting

[40galreef]

I am planning on setting up a 55 gallon (breeder size) reef tank. I would like to get around 220 watts on it. I am working on a budget, so I might get a used tank and either replace the lighting or build a hood. Cost being the biggest consideration, what do you think would be the best lighting option for this tank? Thanks

 

[Sniperhank]

2 dimmable taotronics led fixtures is the cheapest you'll be able to go.

 

[mr_X]

Breeders are 30, 40, and 50 gallon as far as I've seen. A standard 55 is 48" x 12". I would use the 2 Tao's also.

 

[40galreef]

Breeders are 30, 40, and 50 gallon as far as I've seen. A standard 55 is 48" x 12". I would use the 2 Tao's also.

Sorry, I just meant a shallower tank. Side note, do you think a standard 55 gallon tank is fine for a reef? Can this fixture be mounted in a hood? From the pictures, it looks like they have to be hung. Thanks!

 

[Sniperhank]

Yes, I love my 55. I'd like a wider tank for a larger sandbed...but I'm just getting picky now that I've filled the tank with coral!

Build a hood and simply mount the lights like you would if it was the ceiling. Not really that big of an issue. Why you get dimmable.

 

[40galreef]

Yes, I love my 55. I'd like a wider tank for a larger sandbed...but I'm just getting picky now that I've filled the tank with coral!

Build a hood and simply mount the lights like you would if it was the ceiling. Not really that big of an issue. Why you get dimmable.

I saw that they recommend the lighting be at least 30 cm away from the water. I don't use metric, but would a hood put them closer than that?

 

[Sniperhank]

Thats why they are dimmable. I have my radions hanging no where close to that far away from the water.

 

[40galreef]

Thats why they are dimmable. I have my radions hanging no where close to that far away from the water.

Thanks! Will you send me a picture of your 55 gallon tank? I need inspiration!

 

[Sniperhank]

http://www.aquariumadvice.com/forums/f14/upgrade-55-gal-build-194395.html

Read the whole thread, you can see all the ups and downs.

 

[40galreef]

http://www.aquariumadvice.com/forums/f14/upgrade-55-gal-build-194395.html

Read the whole thread, you can see all the ups and downs.

Thank you

 

[mr_X]

I think they recommend them to be that far from the water so they don't get splashed with salt water. Even though they have a protective lens, The metal casing will eventually rust if hit with a lot of salt water.