Good way to change watts from 150 to 250 HQI?

[fabbss]

What would be the best way to do this? I have read that people place the light higher and slowly lower it through time, or placing corals on the bottom and slowly raise them closer to the light.

If this is a good method, how long should you do this.

 

[rockindacheeks]

i think lowering the light would be a lot less of a hassle than moving around corals...

 

[fabbss]

Your probably right, I was just wondering if that would work because I would have to remove my canopy.

 

[rockindacheeks]

instead of lowering the light just reduce the photoperiod... gradually leave the light on longer... that would be the easiest.

 

[JR719]

More than likely the best way..... Go to your fav home store, get some window screen. Add a few layers between the tank and lights. About every 4 days, remove a layer of screen. That is the best way to acclimate and use your standard photoperiod.
For that jump in light, I would use about 3 layers and check intensity, if it seems darker than what you had, remove a layer. You may only have to use 1, just have to check.
Lowering the photoperiod only decreases the amount of time they get blasted with extra light. It will help, but still intense light for a short period. Raising the lights will also help, but how high would you have to put them?
Window screen is cheap and easy, and you don't have to change any settings.

 

[jmcmahon66]

I totally agree with JR719 about the window screen. I did the switch from 150W to 250W a year ago and reduced my photoperiod. It was not enough. I bleached the upper portion of my tank, and lost several corals. Another contributing factor was heat, as my setup was not ready for the heat that 250W bulbs produce. I would suggest the window screen method, and go very slow. I wish I did. HTH

 

[Serioussnaps]

Go to home depot and put about 3 layers of staggered screen...pull one off per week.