What is optimal lighting for a 40g Reef?

[CA2OR]

Just curious. I currently have 48w PC 50-50's and believe I should upgrade. I can't afford the MH's so should I add T5's?

[vanz]

Yeah, if you can't afford MH, go with T-5s. Don't just add to your current PC, replace the unit completely. You can also retrofit T-5s to your hood if you want to save some cash.

[CA2OR]

How do I do that? I hear that there is a Helio's 24inch fixture that I should be looking at but I get confused when I looked it up. The fixture is $99 but how much are the bulbs it only states the bulbs then says $20
here is link.
http://www.americanaquariumproducts.com/Helios.html

[CA2OR]

It is the 24" VHO fixture with the hper grow is what I was thinking

[vanz]

Try this site:

http://www.hellolights.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=1349

There's a vid in there also, but just look up retrofit kits on google.

[SamatSLS]

What are the dimensions of your tank?

[CA2OR]

24x20x17.5

[SamatSLS]

Find yourself a 4 lamp T5HO (High Output) system that you can afford. Don't go too cheap on the bulbs, get some good ones from companies like UVL, ATI, D-D Geisemann.


Sam

[dsoz]

+1

Make sure that the T5 system has individual reflectors. Otherwise it is not much better than PC lights. Don't go too cheap, or you will regret it. Spend the maximum amount that you can.

I have a 6 bulb T5 TEK light (from Sunlight :) ) over a 75g tank. I am well pleased with it. I can get anything to grow, including SPS and anemones. I have not tried clams yet, but I have seen clams in a system just like mine.

dsoz


dsoz

[SamatSLS]

Yeah, reflectors and lamps need to be the best you can afford. Only compromise on the housing, ballasts, etc. Reflectors are the most important aspect of T5 lighting.

[dsoz]

Oh ya, get a splash guard. The reflectors don't work so good once they are stained by salt spray. :( I found this out the hard way.

dsoz