Sunlight from windows -- good or bad?

[erasmu]

I am setting up a new reef tank. It is located between two windows where it can receive brief (< 1 hour max in summer) direct sunlight on one end and strong indirect light on the other end. Since I am spending considerable money to buy high powered compact fluorescent lighting, is there any concern about allowing the sunlight? I could attach something to the ends and back of the tank, but would prefer not to, if there are no bad consequences to exposing the tank to this extent. Does anyone have any direct experience with this type of situation or recommendations? The tank is just starting, so if it is necessary to cover up, I would do it now. Thanks.

 

[NoriMuncher]

The only bad possibility I can think of is the (not inconsiderable) extra heat.

 

[MandarinFish]

Get ready to scrub algae. Get a good, big magnet and be ready to scrub a couple times a week.

Mine is in a west-facing window.

The incredible light is fantastic.

The summer heat is something I will need to seriously address.

I haven't had to deal with it yet, but I'm unfortunately having to look seriously at a chiller.

The view of the fish with the sky behind them and the view of the SF Bay Area is worth the cost to me (I live in the Oakland hills, so it looks like my fish are flying with the sky behind them - I'll post a pic some day).

[ April 15, 2002: Message edited by: MandarinFish ]</p>

 

[erasmu]

Thanks for your response. I will monitor the temp and can close the blinds on those windows on days when it seems necessary.

 

[xKEIGOx]

I have a reef tank out door. The SPS coral open larger then any other tank that i have. The SPS turn more borwn... dark drown after a few weeks in that tank. And the fish.. hemm... i think they are more healty then the one that i have inside. Maybe because of the vitamin c or it was just my imagination. But you do have to clean the glass alot. my one it's like everyday! And a chiller too! Well... maybe because Malaysia is hot all the time. If my chiller die... then most of my corals will surely follow.

 

[Gary Majchrzak]

The morning and evening sun strikes my 220 gallon reef in the spring and autumn through my homes windows.It totally washes out over 1500 watts of lighting that I'm paying my electric company for.What could possibly be better?