Bulb for refugium?

[Anonymous]

I'm using a regular clip-on light w/ reflector that takes a normal lamp light bulb. I currently have a 100 watter on my sump. In order for the macro algae to grow, should I keep this bulb or do I need a different spectrum for it?

I have WalMart and K-Mart by me, so if there's something from either of those places that will work please let me know.

Are plant growth bulbs alright to use?

Any help would be appreciated, thanks.

Peace,

Chip

 

[cindywennin]

Plant grow lights are great. They are made to grow...plants

I use flourescent grow lights which will cut down on heat.

 

[Mac1]

Hi Marillion,

I've used Flour., PC, and HID lamps on my refugium, and while they all grew macro's, the PC and HID lamps did by far the best job. I tried making the PC Conversion's mentioned on some DIY places with the Lights of America Ballast (do a search on LOA on any of the boards, you'll come across it). Worked pretty good for a while, then I got them wet and bought an HID lamp. Used an outdoor floodlight from the local Hardware store. Made a reflector from some aluminum plate material, hung it above the tank, Voila! 100 Watts of HPS grows macro's better than you think. I still have the lamp... would cost you more than a new one to ship it, but you're welcome to the thing if you want it. Now I have a 175 Watt Halide, and absolutely love it.
I've tried using Incandescent lamps before, and while they do grow stuff, give off a whole lotta heat and aren't very energy efficient. IMO you'd be better off with Flour. or PC's, especially if this is underneath your main tank.

- Mac