Large Reef Tank (1200 gallon) need lot's of info

[Russ1]

If you plan on running nice lighting and a commercial dehumidifier, expect your electric bill to increase by at least $300.00 per month! I have 750 total gal. in my basement. I know! Russ

 

[Anonymous]

Great ideas, Mr. Milz. (Especially the importance of level)

Please drop the "Mr.". It makes me feel funny, particularly when I include so many typos in my posts.

 

[Anonymous]

If you plan on running nice lighting and a commercial dehumidifier, expect your electric bill to increase by at least $300.00 per month! I have 750 total gal. in my basement. I know! Russ

Would switching to 3-phase or 220 make a difference? I know nothing about the subject, but I seem to recall an electrician telling me that this would reduce energy costs.

 

[Anonymous]

Switching to 3phase wouldn't lower your bill, all you are giving yourself is one more hot phase. Most homes are 2 phase. Mowst homes don't need 3 phases. However, since you're going to have so much power drain on your current system, it might be a good idea.

220 would be a good idea though. Most ballasts/pumps that run on 220 are more efficient than their 110 counterparts. You could save some money that way.


HTH
B

 

[Anonymous]

Yeah, what he^ said!

B

 

[Anonymous]

Hmmm, maybe the increased efficiency of motors (ie, pumps) running on 220 is what my electrician was referring to. Thanks

 

[Anonymous]

Take a look at the formula for current. The more current you draw, the higher your power bill be.

Look at an example without dealing with pf (power factor) for simplicity sake. Let say a 400W lamps connected to 120 and again at 240.

Watts/voltage=current

400/ 120 = 3.333 amperes

400/240 = 1.666 amperes

This is an over simplified example of the relationship between voltage/watts as it relates to current. Ballasts and motors have ineffeciencies that effect the math, but generally you should always use the highest available voltage, if given a choice.

Louey