180g PC swap to LEDs ...ADVICE NEEDED!

[casshoward]

Running PCs ... considering "upgrading" to LEDs

Set-UP: 180g (72x24x24), acrylic bow, with shallow canopy. There is a wooden support beam dividing the canopy in half with two lift-up lips (only the top surface lifts up). The maximum internal width on each side of canopy is 33". Current PC fixtures (approx 18" long) are mounted under each canopy lid.

Excessive heat has always been an issue, therefore running PCs for years (no halides). Wanting more vibrant coral colors and growth (currently softies and LPS) and wanting to add SPS.

:idea: Considering a switch to LEDS. Read lots of info on DIY set-ups but not well versed in this area. I want a long term solution, not interested in swapping out fixtures every year.

Any recommendations of reliable, quality fixtures for my set-up?

 

[PensFan05]

Never tried LEDs Cass so I can't really help you out there. I have only had MH's. But heat is definitely an issue with those. How are the frags you got the other night?

 

[stlcard]

i run a combo LED T5. I went with a DIY RapidLED.com setup.

I did solderless. Its extremely easy to setup and im getting great results. check out their site, they have good info and lots of packages if you want to buy everything you need for each particular tank size.

a couple things to note:

ALWAYS go with a dimmable unit. LED's seem to be a different kind of quality light and can easily overload your corals if you dont have a dimmable option.

I have a 2:1 RoyalBlue & Blue :: White/ warm white combination. I run mine at 90% blue and 80% whites. I worked up to this over a 5 week acclimation period. Check out my RapidLED reviews thread - http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2251902

My Fixture is controlled via an Apex, so if you have a controller, you can use that to dim. If not, youll have to use the manual potentiometers. http://www.rapidled.com/diy-2-color-dimming-kit/

 

[ProjectPate]

I'm not an expert on LED's either but keep in mind, some LED manufacturers advise not running their fixtures in closed canopies. You may need to plan a way of venting the hood as well to keep from overheating. Just a thought.