Cheap Lighting Alternatives for Coral

[peterk814]

Hey guys,

I recently started a small 29g Saltwater tank, and I really wanted to add some live coral or anemones to it, but the hood and light that came in the package for the tank i purchased will probably not work for the coral. I have been reading a lot about VHO lighting, MH, etc. Is there a cheaper alternative to all this. Money is still tight around the house so 250 dollar MH units are out. Does anyone know if I could just use VHO bulb in my current flourescent fixture. Thanks.

The kit i bought was the Tetra care 29g tank with an upgraded filter Emperor 400. Thanks again

 

[cilyjr]

you can not use the vho bulb in your current hood... you would need a different ballast and end caps to run it.

here is just about everything you need to know about lighting
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=550860

 

[reefworm]

you might look into power compacts and/or T5s if you're looking to keep soft corals and LPS.

good...
http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_ViewItem~idProduct~ES53004.html

better...
http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_ViewItem~idProduct~ES53102.html

FWIW $250 would be a great deal for an MH set up. I recently upgraded for my 29 with this hanging hood:
http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merc...uct_Code=AM-75080&Category_Code=Oceanlight-T5

something to file away for later

 

[jamiep]

Look into DIY lighting, save yourself loads. Im currently sourcing all my own bits for a DIY T5 kit which works out at max. £40 a bulb with reflectors and new balasts the works!

 

[virginiadiver69]

You can keep just about anything you want under VHO T-5 lighting. You can save loads by doing a retrofit kit.

 

[JUNI0R]

On a 29 gallon, T-5 retro in your hood is a great option, I have a clam, many LPS and softies with no problem. I am using 4x24 retro and it is a lot of light. IMO you could start with a 2x24 retro and that would be able to start with low to medium light corals and add a second 2 light retro later for higher light corals. If you look at those links, the prices include lights.

 

[chin]

T-5 are the way to go if you're looking for inexpensive lighting w/ the most options for livestock. The limiting factor will be how many bulbs will you want across the hood

 

[danmcmahon]

If you are going to upgrade your lighting you will probably add alot more heat. You may also need a chiller $$$$