Switching lighting from MH to LEDs

[NYC/NJREEFS]

I am seriously considering making the switch, due to the power efficiency of led lighting over MH. I currently run a 48" fixture with (2) 250w XM 20k bulbs supplemented by (2) T5/54w actinic bulbs. The tank is a 48L x 22H x 18W, I dont keep SPS coral just a mix of softies and LPS, and a rbta.

I am considering going with two AI Sol units, does anyone know if this would be enough lighting for my tank. A second option I was looking at is two SWC led fixture w/cree leds 60w total, dimable but not much else unlike the AIs which have moon cycle, storms, and you can ramp them up.

Obiously AIs are the better fixture but I just wanted to hear from people who are using them whether they are worth the extra expense or those feature are just overkill and not really needed.

Thanks in advance

 

[macraider]

Hi - I had two AI units (pre-SOL) over my Solana nano tank (20" x 20"). I know the newer units are more powerful than the two units I purchased but I would think on a tank your size you would want 3-4 units at least. You won't likely get enough coverage with just two units.

-Chris

 

[NYC/NJREEFS]

AI Sol

AI Sol

Thanks for the advise, you were absolutely right. I purchased the two unit system and there are dark spots on the corners, I placed them lenght wise and got better coverage. I bought a used unit yesterday from a fellow RC member, $330 shipped so I will reposition them once I recieve the third one. I'll update with pictures once I get it.

They are very nice lights almost silent operation, no heat transfer on the water, I definitely dont need my chiller anymore.

 

[jpuma]

please post your experiences with this in a few weeks as i am looking to take the led plunge also early next year.. my setup is pretty similar to yours .. thanks