Lighting Dilema

[bklynreef]

I just bought a Hamilton 250 watt MH pendant from daceman, but it looks like I will either need another one to cover the tank. I bought for $150, a new one is about $275. so, the question. do i buy a new one or sell the old one and buy a 400 watt 14k reefstar for $275. Anyone have any experience with this Hamilton reefstar?

 

[Deanos]

It seems you need a better spread of light, not more wattage. Look into a more efficient reflector.

 

[TimberTDI]

What kind of tank are you looking to light? I'm using a single 250W over a 92 bow. I keep the light about 14" off the water and I get a nice spread. I do plan on changing out to DE bulbs the next time the bulb is do for replacement.

Steven

 

[bklynreef]

Id rather not start tinkering with reflectors. its easier to just buy a new unit and sell the old one. The wattage of 400 would be better and cheaper than running 2 pendants at 250watts ea. Just wondering if this reefstar lamp is a good one. i can get it for $275.
Im running a 30 gallon with an open top. I have a lot of sps on the sides which dont get much sunshine.

 

[TimberTDI]

The one thing I'm always worried about with running the one bulb, is that I'll be in a pickle if the light craps out. At least with 2 250 if one craps out you still have the other going until you can get a replacement.

 

[bklynreef]

good point! The problem is that a the new 400 watt reefstar pendant is the same price as the 250 watt single pendant. I would even consider keepng the old one as a spare just in case.

 

[Deanos]

Metal halide wattage typically relates to the depth of a tank, not the spread of light. You're almost comparing apples to oranges.

 

[bklynreef]

Understood, which is why im going with the single 250 watt pendant.
my calculations before were to raise the 400watt higher off the tank, but since im not going that road it doesnt matter.

 

[fritz]

I run two 150s on my 36" tank and it's great. I use a sunpod which is about in the price range that you're looking at.