MH versus T5

[mlimb]

I am considering replacing my 250W MH with a T5 system. Does anyone know how T5 watts compare with MH watts for lux output. I don't know what system to purchase. I was told T5 have a greater lux output per watt than the MH. Water depth is 20 inches.

 

[McCrary]

If you have metal halides, why would you want to get rid of them? Metal halides are incredibly efficient and provide that cool shimmer effect.

 

[mlimb]

I have trouble with the water temp during the summer. During the winter I can keep it at a constant 76 degrees, but in the summer it tends to creep up in the day and down at night with a high closer to 79 and low of 76. I am worried about the flux and can't afford a chiller. I was hoping the T5 would offer enough light without the heat problem.

 

[owsi]

IMO, I think the color spectrum of T-5 is nicer, but heat will be about the same

 

[SWSaltwater]

79 is a good temp to keep the aquarium at IMO. My VHO tank ran about 78-79 year round. T-5 won't be much different. If you are running 79 with MH lights you are doing good. Most MH tanks I come across in the summer run 80-82 range.

 

[McCrary]

My tank is about 79 during the night (when the lights are off) and 81-82 during the day (when the lights are on).

 

[fishaholic911]

Are you running fans on your canopy? I agree 79 is a good temp just run heaters @ night so you do not have the temp flux.

 

[fishaholic911]

I run 4 250w mh with 2 160w vho I have 2 fans blowing in and 2 blowing out my temp stays @ 78 day night summer witer it never changes.

 

[cerreta]

MH DE 14k Phoenix with Reef fanatic 250 watt ballast produces 32,000 LUX.

Two T5 (50/50 & Actinic 03) in IC reflectors and IC 660 ballast produces 15000 LUX. These 2 lamps consume 110 watts.

However, running four lamps does not get you 30000 LUX of output. The output is the same 15000 LUX but you get more area coverage.

These were my findings when I did a bulb analysis a while back.

I like and prefer MH. They produce more coloration and pop compared to the T5. If you are on a budget, your money is better spent on a 1/10th hp chiller than converting lighting systems which will cost about $300 also.

 

[mlimb]

Thank you so much for all of the info. I think I'll change my plan then and stick with the MH and save up for a chiller. I was hoping I had found a better alternative, but looks like MH is my best bet. Thanks again.