Using screens for new bulb break-in

[Mariner]

It's about time to replace the MH bulbs over the 135g. I know several of you have used screens to break in new bulbs, but I've never tried it before. How many screens should I use during the break-in, and how frequently should I remove a screen? FYI, one bulb is a 400w and one is a 175w. I'm going back with the same kelvin, 20k and 14k respectively.
TYI,
Mariner

 

[H@rry]

I've seen people suggest 3 or 4 layers and removing one layer per week. I've never used them myself though so I can't be sure (and I have bleached some corals too).

 

[jasontammy]

I have seen some people use egg crates to break the light up. Dont know if that helps you any or not. How is the exnia I gave you at the last meeting doing?

 

[8BALL_99]

I just raise my canopies up a few inches. I would think much more then a couple layers would block most of the light. I'd probably just use one layer then remove it after a few days or so. Your tank is pretty tall so you should be fine.

 

[Mariner]

Well, the tank is tall, but there are several corals placed very high. Like Harry, I've bleached corals in times past when I changed MH bulbs, although normally a change in wattage or kelvin was also involved if I remember correctly. BTW, I've never had that problem when changing NO fluourescent bulbs
Anyway, I'll probably try a couple of screens and see how it works.

jasontammy,
The xenia is doing fine. Looks very blue compared to the Xenia elongata and Anthelia in the same tank.

Mariner

 

[H@rry]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14520413#post14520413 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Mariner
BTW, I've never had that problem when changing NO fluourescent bulbs
Mariner

You have to change those?