Lighting suggestions please.

[mcoomer]

I have two 250W metal halides on my 125 and I've been thinking of upgrading. My first thought was to swap both lamps and run 400W. That would give me 800W total, 6.4W/gallon and would run me about $900 at my LFS. I started thinking that maybe I would just install a third bulb. If I go that route I could add a 400W for 900W total and 7.2W/gallon or another 250W for 750W total and 6.0W/gallon.

I'm kind of leaning towards getting another 250W at this point but wanted to hears some other thoughts on the mattter. If adding another 250W would provide enough light for my tank I wouldn't mind saving some money.

Thanks,
Mike

 

[Kenzy]

What are you running for reflectors? That might be an option as well.

If you do decide to add another MH a 250w would be enough.

 

[Alaskan Reefer]

250W is plenty for a the depth of a 125. I use 150W for part of my tank, and growth, while not as good as it is on my T5 portion of the tank, is still just fine. 400W would be a waste of money and might push you into chiller necessity if you're not there already.

 

[Holyreefer]

i agree the 250s should be more than enough for you

 

[mcoomer]

I'm running two 250W bulb on a PFO ballast with Spider reflectors. I think I'll just pick up another 250 on the way home today.