Can you stack Metal Halide Ballasts

[capspath83]

Hey All,

I just finished staining my homemade stand and put together my tank to make sure there were no leaks when testing the overflow and return to the sump. Now I had a quick question as far as ballasts go. I have 2-250w metal halides and i have a little extra space inside my cabinet with the sump. Can I stack the ballasts on top of each other to save some room on the side of my tank for other material. Space is sort of limited right now as I live in an apartment.

Please let me know your thoughts.

 

[ggrillo]

I probably wouldn't. I'm sure all ballasts are different, but I'd be worried about them overheating.

 

[power boat jim]

If you do you would probably need a fan cooling them. I personally would not stack them.

 

[Drae]

I wouldn't.

 

[capspath83]

Thanks all.

I will figure something out.

 

[usmc121581]

I have mine stacked, however I have a fan that stays on to keep them cool.

 

[capspath83]

Thanks USMC.. I was thinking about stacking on PVC to keep them cool..but I ended up keeping them outside of the tank on in line on the side. Works for now. The tank is soooo bright! This is my first metal Halide unit.. (4) 54w T5 HO and (2) 250w Metal Halides on a 75 gallon FOWLR Tank with a 29g sump. I know it is overkill for this but I do want to convert back to a reef tank once we buy a house!