Aluminum foil reflectors

[ReefsandGeeks]

I'm just built a canopy for my tank and noticed that a lot of light hits the inner walls of the canopy. I'm thinking about taping/gluing aluminum foil to the inside panels of the canopy in an effort to reflect the light back into the aquarium. I'm not sure if I should be worried about aluminum being in close proximity to the tank. I remember hearing of concerns with aluminum in the tank.

I doubt there would be much salt spray up as high as I plan on putting it, but of course there will be come over time. If the aluminum seems too risky, does anyone have any other suggestions for reflecting the light back into the tank? I think it's wasteful and also think light reflected from the canopy would come from a different angle than my light fixture which could help illuminate a portion of the shadowed areas of the tank.

 

[randomfishguy85]

Glossy white paint would be better than aluminum foil. Besides being easier to install correctly( painting vs. Taping/gluing), aluminum foil isn't a great reflector. Shine a flashlight on a piece of foil and you will see what I mean

 

[billdogg]

Actually, flat white will give more even coverage in your tank.

 

[mcgyvr]

Yep.. flat white paint..

 

[homer1475]

I third the flat white paint.

 

[ReefsandGeeks]

Hmm, looks like flat white paint it is. Thanks for the tips. That will be easier than the foil, and safer. Will regular latex ceiling paint work fine? Reef safe? at least safe enough to be used near the tank.

 

[mcgyvr]

Since no one mentioned it.. Flat White Paint is better
Keep the aluminum foil in the kitchen..

 

[JZinCO]

yeah but foil will keep the gubmint out of your fishes' thoughts

 

[mcgyvr]

yeah but foil will keep the gubmint out of your fishes' thoughts

Nope.. Only works for Aliens (and not the "illegal" kind)