question about metal halide light

[crmartinez]

I am new at this. Had a question I saw this ad on craiglist 400 watt light seems to have been used a building I recall seeing some during the tour this weekend at the resturant. Anyway does anyone know if I can use one of these as my lighting for my tank (55 gallon).


Here is the info for reference thanks

Id number 569153870
Date: 2008-02-10, 7:12AM CST
THESE ARE 400 WATT METAL HALIDE FIXTURES.
THEY ARE USED BUT IN GOOD CONDITION.

 

[DMBillies]

I'm not a total expert on metal halide lighting, but I think a 400W halide would be WAY too much for the middle of your tank and not enough to cover the full length of the tank. If you got 2x150's, you'd save yourself some electricity bill and get better coverage. That said, I don't know too many people who have halides over a 55 because they are so skinny front-to-back. I personally think you would probably have better luck getting good coverage, plenty of light, and quite a lot of money savings by going with T5's instead. This is all of course my opinion.

 

[crmartinez]

Thank you. This may seem like a dumb question but what light fixture would bring t5 2 150 lights. Currently I have coralife compact lights.

 

[waynesworld]

Hay if you want to come up to Murfreesboro I can show you both T5 and 400w MHs I have all of them and can shou you some other tanks in the area that have T5s How much is he wanting for the 400w? I have some that I can sell as I went to T5's.

 

[crmartinez]

That would be great I would love to see the difference. As far as the one he is selling He has several for 40.00 used.

 

[waynesworld]

Let me know next time you are in the area and we will show you the tanks 40 sounds too cheap I am not sure about it I don't know if you can use the shop type lights to run the lights for the tanks?

 

[NeveSSL]

More periods, Wayne... more periods.

I feel like I'm listening to a William Shatner monologue when reading your threads.



And I agree... 4 T5s over your 55 would be a great solution to your lighting needs. I'm one of the tanks Wayne was referring to that you could come tour if you'd like.

Brandon

 

[gsusfreak]

yea...definitely go to T5's...i have 4 bulbs over my 55 gallon...and it already looks like i have too much light!

 

[fallinapart]

I had 2 250 watt MH over my 55 gallon for several weeks while setting up my 90 gal. Plenty of light, but plenty of heat also and the center brace warped a little from the heat. (period here for Brandon). Also the same lights on the 90g gave me a heat problem and had to use a chiller. Now have T-5 and much happier with the looks and color of the tank. Chiller runs much less. Personal recommendation is T-5(Period)

Norman

 

[crmartinez]

Thank you to all for your input I guess I will send you a message when I go to murfreesboro