newb lighting question

[cb9tunerguy]

can you use a halogen spot light (security light) in place of a metal halide light? you can pick up a 500w light like this at home depot or lowes for under $50.00. or is this a dumb idea?

 

[bguile]

I guess there would be nothing stopping you from doing it, but I wouldn't. For one, you get a color spectrum that encourages algae and two the color is not very flattering. More orange/yellow. I use a conventional flood lamp in my refugium. That's the only place I'd use it.

 

[Pete1399]

I wouldn't. Maybe for a fish only but then you may as well use a cheap flourescent fixture.

 

[keeperofthesea]

Besides the spectrum, those spotlights get hot quick, i'd hate to see what would happen if it was left on for 8 hours straight. My guess is anything plastic within a foot or so would melt!