DIY MH Lighting Question

[thatdog]

So I'm trying to setup my 115 gallon tank and I'd like to have MH lighting at a somewhat reasonable price. I was at lowes and this isn't the exact picture, but it is similar to the image below, with out the sensor.

I was wondering if anyone had any experience setting up a MH like this. My thoughts were that you could pick up one of these 400w fixtures for $20 and replace the bulb with a standard aquarium MH bulb (ex. Hamilton 20k HQI).

Is this possible? Anybody doing this currently?

 

[Rosseau]

It is possible, I'm doing it right now but I'm waiting for my bulb. It should be here tomorrow.


There used to be a few threads about it at nano-reef.com
Here is one.. http://www.nano-reef.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=35351&hl=

It apparently works fine, the only thing is making sure you buy the right sized fixture for the bulbs.

 

[Rosseau]

Oh, you still need a MH ballast, but I think you already know that..?

 

[BeanAnimal]

You may want to consider purchasing Reef Optic or LumenMax fixtures (~$100). They will be MUCH more efficient at getting light into the tank and the cost is only slightly more.

You will also save the hassle of hacking or replacing the lamp holders and cordsets.

 

[ghostrida3]

slightly??? 100-20???

 

[BeanAnimal]

Your "DIY" dollars would be much better spent elsewhere. Yes slightly.

We are not talking a 5$ fixture vs a $500 fixture.

We are talking about a $50 investment vs a $99 investment.

We are talking about 20%-30% more light in the tank for that investment.

 

[thatdog]

Thanks for the information guys. I knew this was the place to find it. After reviewing the information I think I'm just going to go a little more expensive and get some Hamilton Retro Kits.

 

[BeanAnimal]

I would take a serious look at the SLS ReefOptix III
They are very efficient reflectors (the lumen max are better if you need a bit larger footprint). I think the beat the hamiltons with regard to the amount of light put into the tank.

 

[thatdog]

I did a quick search on google for the SLS ReefOptix III, where would you purchase one of these?

 

[BeanAnimal]

http://www.reefgeek.com/lighting/Metal_Halide/Sunlight_Supply/Reflectors/


I have seen the RO III for as low as $89 ( I paid $99 a year or so ago). "Reef Optix III" in google.