lighting upgrade

[jedimpt]

Got some cf lighting right now and after seeing everyone's beautiful tanks, I'm going to be upgrading to either T5 or MH. Got a 58g that is 18" tall. I have only leathers and shrooms right now but would definitely upgrade my corals depending on what I can support. Does anyone have any recommendations as to the type of lighting and a reliable brand?

 

[corbett_n]

i would go t5, especially for a tank of that depth.

 

[aquaman67]

It really just depends on what you want to spend, both for the setup and each month on the electric bill.

I like t-5's because you can adjust the color more to your liking without spending $80 on a single bulb.

marineandreef.com has good prices on Nova setups. I use two 30 inch on my 50 gallon. I have about the same corals.

 

[lostintheocean]

y

 

[Gwynhidwy]

I'm a T-5 fan and these: http://www.reefgeek.com/lighting/T5_Fluorescent/Sunlight_Supply/Tek_Light_Fixtures/ are a good place to start.

 

[jedimpt]

I guess that cost isn't that much of worry (of course I won't get ridiculous like some of u guys). I want it to look kick *** and do have some concerns about heat since i live in deep south texas and my tank already runs at about 81-82. (it was like 102 yesterday!)

Some added info: My tank is 36". I would like to keep some corals that require higher light requirements. I also like the shimmering effect of MH. Can u get that with the T5s? U guys need any other info?

 

[aquaman67]

No shimmer with t5's.

If you really want MH you may need to start looking at adding a chiller too.


Something like this.

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+3733+12113&pcatid=12113

Or this.

http://www.hellolights.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=252

 

[jedimpt]

will a supplemental led system add the shimmer if i go with the t5s?

 

[Toddrtrex]

Getting metal halide doesn't mean you have to get a chiller. Over my 58 I have 2*250 MH + 2*96 PC, and 2 clip on fans over my sump keeps my temps in check (( 78*-83* )). My light fixture sits right on top of the tank.

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=15286552#post15286552 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jedimpt
will a supplemental led system add the shimmer if i go with the t5s?

Most likely not. The T5s will drown out any shimmer from the LEDs, though you will see some shimmer when all the other lights are off, and just the LEDs are on.

 

[Crazed]

The shimmer from MH really is something to behold, but I'd rather have peace of mind with T5s. If you really want shimmer, pick up an LED moonlight and run it at night. It really looks cool.