Icecap questions

Tony44

Tony44

New member
So, I want to install an icecap retrofit into the canopy of the 72 bowfront I am getting tomorrow. Problem is, I know absolutely nothing about retrofits, I have read about them, but I still dont know much about them. Seems like there are so many pieces that come along with it, that I dont know what all I need.

If I were to go with the Icecap ballast that I hear many good things about, what all would I need?

http://www.marinedepot.com/md_viewItem.asp?idproduct=ICK484

Would that right there be everything that I need? Would I need a fan, reflectors, or anything else with that?


http://www.marinedepot.com/md_viewItem.asp?idproduct=IC1121

Or would I be ok with that one?
 
That kit has everything you will need except for the three prong grounded plug, which you can get at any hardware place.

I would go with the 46.5" kit however. The full 48" bulbs are tough to fit in a 48" canopy with the endcaps on, plus the two bulb sizes are the same wattage, and the shorter bulbs are much easier to deal with.

A fan might be nice if your tank runs hot, but may not be neccesary.

Your second link didn't work, so I have no idea if that would be ok... :)
 
Ok, one thing to keep in mind, icecap retro kits usually have only 1 ballast for all your lights. If you want to do your lights in cycles you will need 2 ballast and another icecap ballast will set you back another $200. For example, VHO through the day Actinics evening and moonlights at night.
 
Cinta, the link does not work. And yes, my fault for not mentioning this before, but I definitely want to run T5s. NOT VHO!!

I bought a 4X54 T5 tek light, and was going to use that, but I hear so much about this icecap retro, how they overddrive the bulbs, etc. I want to keep it all, acros, all SPS, clams, everything!! And I want to get the lighting that I need, dont want to have to buy some newer lighting 4 months from now cause its not strong enough. Another thing, this tank I am buying comes with a canopy, a canopy gives a tank that final touch, so I would rather keep the canopy rather than ditch it.
 
i have 4 over my 75 gal. and works great however i will soon get 2 more to add to it just so it has more spread over the tank. but 4 will work but 6 is better also you can have the dusk dawn effect.
 
I got my retros from Reef Geek, and I was very happy with their prices and service (as I always am). Before you order, give them a call. They really know their stuff and if you're looking at adding a second ballast, getting an extra reflector for another bulb, etc., they'll work out a deal with you. They also price match with any other online dealer.

I got the 36" version of that same setup and it has everything you need (including the electric cord). I would really think about going with two ballasts for the dawn/dusk effect kau_cinta_ku mentioned. Again, just give the guys there a call, and they'll hook you up with what you need.
 
Thank you island, I will definitely give reefgeek a call tomorrow.

Are there any advantages to the dusk/dawn effect? Other than it looking nice?

Thanks
 
no really other advantage except looks but also if you run them along with the other lights it will help pop the colors better and give extra par
 
While it would be nice, I think I will pass on the two ballasts. The 2X54 watt very high output one is $250, two would be 500, the 4X54 is only $350, and im kinda on a budget here.

Now as far as bulbs. I have never had T5s before, on my PCs I run two of the blue actinics, and two daylights. What would you guys recommend for my ballast?

Thanks
 
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