Newbie

[bethzb]

Hello to all and although I am not new to reef keeping I am new to forums. Pretty odd for someone who does tech support, data management and programming but there you go.

I am hoping that one of the members can help me with an issue. I understand most folks utilize metal halide lighting but they also do not have a fiance arguing about the electric bill, heat output etc. I am currently using compact flourescents, 2 10000ks, 2 460n actinics and 6 led lunar lights. I only mention lighting because most folks feel that this is what affects coral colors. I have however come across mention that the dkh is in fact more influential. Mine is currently right around 9 but found mention that if I increase it to 10 or 11 I will get better coloration out of my corals. In particular my acropora's which are currently varying shades of yellow and tan.

Has anyone experimented with this and if so what were the results?

 

[emmanuel]

my dkh has been 9.3 for a couple of years and my sps colors are great under DIY led fixture

 

[Chiefmcfuz]

Welcome to MR! Nice to have someone local. Metal halide lighting is the best but yes it does get expensive. Just unplugg his TV and you should be fine

 

[bethzb]

Hi emmanuel. We have been looking into the LED scene but got spooked by mention of patent infringement and law suits. How long have you been running LED's?

 

[bethzb]

I have to laugh at the tv comment. I have tried many times to explain that falling asleep with the 46" flat screen on uses just as much electricity and generates just as much heat but to no avail. Ah well, he is interested in the LED's so perhaps I will search for a discussion on those.

 

[James]

Welcome to MR (the best forum on the net)

Wait until the spring issue of Reefs Magazine comes out. There is an article with instructions on dealing with spouses. It should help you.

-James

 

[dubs]

welcome to mr leave the spouse u will never win that battle