anybody use VHO for there nanos?

[gregbot9000]

I already have t12 sockets and tryin to save money.
I know alot of people use PC's and Halides
are there any drawbacks besides short-life and size?
do u need reflectors for them?

 

[JC VT]

VHO bulbs have long life, especially actinics. URI bulbs have internal reflectors, so no on the reflectors.

The only downside is that they won't penetrate as far as halides or T-5's (because of the T-5 reflectors). Many people compensate by shoving as many VHO's as they can in their canopies.

Other than that, color is great. I am running 2 VHO's right now (waiting for my Icecap ballast to be returned from repair so I can run my T-5's), and the corals look great.