Yet another MH question

[WannaBeReefer]

I have a 90 gal AGA that I am just about ready to setup. I want to order lights and am not sure about the distance from the water and the lights. I have a canopy that I am going to use, its top sits about 8 inches above water level. With brackets and the like I do not think I will have the proper height for 250 watt bulbs, would 2 175 watt MH's with 2 VHO's be ok for a BTA , easier corals and maybe a clam? (Wishful Thinking!) At first I will start with some fish and LR but the bug has bitten and I know eventually I would like to advance.

The tank height is 24"

 

[PeeJ]

I submit that you could probably still do 250s, but the 175s would be plenty for the BTA and lots of corals!!!

I don't know about the clam....with 2x250s you could keep almost anything light-wise.

 

[WannaBeReefer]

wont the 250's heat the water to much?

 

[PeeJ]

Well I really do not know, but they are only 75 watts more. Why don't you just make a new canopy and go for the better lights? Just my 2 cents.

 

[WannaBeReefer]

No chance on the canopy, Paid good money for it, it would be 150 watts more for both, so I am a little concerned.

I read in a post a week or so ago that the 250's minimally need to be 8 inches off the watter or you will run into heat problems

 

[Arch01]

Would you be able to cut holes in the canopy and mount some pendants in there? I think you'd be okay with most things near the top of your tank with the 175s, but probably lower light stuff near the bottom since its 24" tall. I'd go with the 250s that way you could keep anything, especially if you change your mind down the road. At least that's my 2 cents.

Alex
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[ChrisRD]

Personally, I don't like my MH lamps closer than 6" to the surface because then I have to clean them more frequently. Of course this is going to vary from tank to tank, depending on how much water movement/splashing you have going-on at the surface.

If you have good circulation through the hood (ie. fans) and the tank is in a climate controlled room (and/or you're not in a very hot climate) there's no reason you can't use 250s. Lots of people do it with no problems (and no chiller).

If it's going to be a mixed tank, 175s would be OK - just keep higher light stuff near the top of the tank. If you're interested in higher light corals and clams then I'd definitely go with the 250s, especially considering the depth of the tank.

 

[WannaBeReefer]

Thanks guy's.

It's so hard because they are very expensive, I hate to make a mistake that will cost me. The 250's make me real nervous because of the height and the fact that all it takes is a drop to hit the bulb and Kaboom!

My canopy is to remain in tact, according to my wife.

 

[PeeJ]

Well I'm not sure about a drop....but I'm not expert. I think like a drop or two might be ok. But if they get splashed then thats a problem. Perhaps someone could clarify .