Lighting change on a 180g

[chappy121]

Thought i would post this here rather thank the lighting forum to get some insight from those with larger tanks.

Currently i am running 3x 250w XM10k SE bulbs on Ice cap electronic ballasts and 2x 60" T5 actinics. Although the growth is great, i would like more out of my colors. I was either thinking of switching up my halides to a 14k or 15k bulb, or possible adding 2 more T5's. Does anyone have any thoughts? Are there any other set ups similar to mine but different bulb selection?

Thanks!

 

[macronut]

I don't have a large tank half your size, but I might be able to help, but first more information is needed. what type of corals are you keeping? what are your water parameters? how often do you change bulbs? how deep is your tank.

 

[chappy121]

i keep mainly SPS, but i have all sorts of stuff. water quality is good, almost everything is nearly 0. i do 10% water changes every other week to maintain good water quality.

good question on changing my bulbs. i don't really change the T5s because they are really just used to supplement. The current halides were purchased last June, so it is about time to replace them. I normally replace them every 12 mos.

 

[chappy121]

no one has any thoughts???

 

[TTrout]

I personally like two 10K's on the outside with a 20K in the middle, but that's just me and I don't have my 180 up yet. Although, I do believe that Melev's tank has this setup on a bit larger tank.