lighting questions

[mr_salty]

Im gathering info for my build, i am going with a 40g main tank and a 20g sump. i think going with the reef octopus nwb 110 for my skimmer, not sure on return pump yet. My question is, what kimd of light i should be looking for, i cant spend the money they want for leds. So im looking at ho t5s or metal halids. I want to be able to keep corals but the heat from metal halide im not sure about, and i dont want to have to have a chiller.i do like the halide for the light par. Oh what a dilemma, your thoughts are appreciated.

 

[blur456]

LED do not have to be expensive, especially for a 40g. You can get a very capable but no frills unit for less than the high end T5s. Checkout the evergrow units in the lighting forum.

I'll be spending less than $200 for LEDs. But it all depends on what you want and need.

 

[speer]

If you don't want a chiller than MH is out. You might be able to get by with t5s and no chiller but you might need fans. I needed a chiller when I had T5s on my 90 gallon. I would definitely research LEDs as you might find something that works in your price range and you won't have to battle heat. Have you thought about buying used LEDs?

 

[mr_salty]

No, i didnt think about used LEDs. Ill have to do some research on LEDs and look into the evergrows. Any ideas on were to look for used ones?

 

[nanoreefer1000]

Don't get evergrows unless they're the reefbreeders fixtures, some you can customize so you can use NW. what's your budget?

 

[mr_salty]

Where can you get the reef breeders? I would like to check them out. Also what do you mean by NW? Budget, i would like to stay under a few hundred bucks. I like the idea of buying used and replacing the bulbs, just don't know were to look or what to look for. My tank is only 16" tall and 36" long

 

[mr_salty]

Any suggestions on LEDs that are decent and a fair price? My tank is 36"x13"x16" tall. Also your thoughts on my tank, it has kinda odd ends on it.

 

[mr_salty]

Any help, thanks