Power compact questions 260 watt or 130 watt???????????

[newreef06]

I have a 55 gal tank. I was wondering what power compact to get. I have on order a Current dual satellite 260 watt power compact. Some one told me to get the 130 watt. Its cheaper and it will be plenty of light. I was wondering what one to get. Also are those lights good. Im new to the hobby

 

[Konadog]

Depends on what type of tank you are going to keep. If it's a fish only tank, the 130w would be OK. If you plan to keep any type of coral, the 260w will be much better. If you plan on keeping SPS, I would save your $$ until you can afford to purchase a MH lighting system.

 

[Paintbug]

are you looking to have corals? if so stick with the 260W lights.

 

[newreef06]

I dont want the metal hylaide. There to much money. Plus my electric bill will go way up. I was going to grow soft corals

scott

 

[Paintbug]

the 260w will do fine. i have PCs on my 75g. i have shrooms, zoos, a leather, LPS corals. they are all doing good. click the little red house for my site and to see some pics

 

[Konadog]

Yes, the 260w will do you just fine for soft corals. How big is your tank, and how tall is the tank?

 

[newreef06]

48X13X20

scott

 

[MCary]

When you are considering electric bill compare wattage to wattage. 250 watts of MH does not cost more that 250 watts of PC.

Personally, after using them all, and excluding MH, I like T5's best followed by VHO and PC last. My current system is 2 250w MH with 2 54w T5 actinic supplement.

 

[JENnKerry]

The 260 is fine. Even if you decide you want to keep LPS and maybe a lower light clam.