Confused about MH/UV

[reefcapnnick]

I've read in multiple places where MH lights need to be shielded from the water by some sort of UV shield.

Is this all MH lights or just certain kinds?

I'm buying a MH retrofit kit, will I need to get some sort of UV diffusing acrylic to put under them? Help!

 

[PiNaPLeX]

If you buy SE (single ended) bulbs, they are already covered by a protective glass coating, so you do not need to worry about UV light from those bulbs. If you purchase a DE (double ended) or HQI bulb, then you will need to use glass shield to filter out the UV rays from those bulbs. Many DE reflectors are enclosed in a housing with a glass cover, but if you're not using one of those reflectors, then you need to make your own glass shield.

 

[reefcapnnick]

Thanks, that answers my question. I'm getting SE bulbs, so I'm good to go.

 

[IndyReefMan]

http://www.masla.com/reef/uvlighting.html

 

[fishbaiter]

Good to know......