Metal Halide question

[ws6kid]

I have the opportunity to buy 2 400w Bulbs/Sockets/Ballasts for $150. All they are missing is reflectors. The current bulbs are 5k. They have never been used.

Questions...

Is this something I should do?

Can a ballast take different light spectrum bulbs? IE: Can I use a 10k in this ballast even though it came with a 5k?

Is there anything that I'm not thinking of that I need to ask about them?

Thank you in advance for the responce

 

[papagimp]

Well, first I'll say that if you are planing on using one of these on your 29g you'll cook the tank.

Yes you can use a 10,000k bulb, the color of the bulb doesn't matter at all (as far as the ability of the ballast to fire it), color is stricktly for you and the corals. Just make sure that you use the right type of bulb and the correct wattage. ie. single ended MH bulb or double ended bulbs.

That's a pretty cheap price, I'd make sure they work fine before purchasing.

 

[ws6kid]

I wasnt going to use on my 29gal, but I was thinking about for when I upgrade after I move within the year. Maybe I could just hang one really high over the tank :lol:

Testing them is a good idea, will make sure to before handing over the cash.

Any other suggestions before I go pick them up?

 

[ws6kid]

Oh, they are Custom Sea Life ballasts if that makes a difference. The bulbs are Sylvania.

 

[papagimp]

Normally I'd ask how old the bulbs and ballasts are, but seeing how the bulbs are 5k and unsuitable in my opnion for a reef tank, doesn't amtter, replace them with something more suitable.

Check to make sure there isn't corrosion at any of the connectors, sockets, wiring. It's not coming with reflectors so as long as the ballasts are firing the bulbs properly, should be okay. Age of the ballast may make a difference though, out of warranty or not kinda thing.

Basically just make sure they look okay, work okay, and you're happy with the purchase.

 

[papagimp]

wasn't aware that sylvania made a MH bulb. I'm not overly familar with that brand ballast so I can't really comment on them, I'd google a search and see what all you can find out about them prior.

 

[ws6kid]

They are brand new and unused.