Are MH/T5 watt for watt

[Cbravo212]

I would like to switch to t5s on my next tank. Hopefully it will be a 4 foot tank that is 24" deep (120g).

If I was to purchase a fixture of 8X54 watt T5s, what is that compared to in MH fixtures. I have experience on my 3 foot tank with MH and would like to figure out how much lighting I need for a 24" depth.

I want to keep sps and clams as well as the others. I will be utilizing plenty of flow with a closed loop and powerheads.

 

[Peter Eichler]

Depending on a lot of factors an 8x54 T5 will easily perform as well or better than 2x250w MH over the same size tank. Just make sure you get good reflectors and bulbs and you'll be able to keep anything, including clams and colorful SPS on the sandbed in a 120 gallon.

 

[Cbravo212]

That comparison is what I was looking for. I was looking into putting two 250 MH pendants over the tank, but wanted the option of several color combinations.

 

[Peter Eichler]

I think the only time that T5's don't prove more efficent and economical at light delivery is when you start getting to 5' long + tanks.

I'm struggling with a decidsion right now with my new tank which is 5" long. I could do 2x250 MH or 6/8x80w T5 and there's not really much savings there nor limitations to either setup.

 

[Cbravo212]

I think this was one of the deciding factors in my looking at the 120. I love the depth and personally like the four foot tank.