How High to mount PC Lights?

[sharpy98]

I am starting my conopy for a 50gal will be mounting 2x96w ah supply kit. How far above the water should these be mounted and as I dont plan on putting glass on top of the tank. What should I use to cover the bulbs from getting wet? Glass, Acrylic, Lexan, Saran Warp:rolleye1: ?

[hlehmann]

I have a 55G acrylic tank. The two rectangular holes in the top are just about the same size as the 96W powerquad lamps. The hood was built so that the lamps are about 6 inches above the water surface, centered above each hole, with nothing else between the lamps and the water. I have no problems with water splashing on the lamps, nor with any salt spray buildup. If you do have those problems, and attempt to protect the lamps with a sheet of glass, etc., eventually the glass will get covered with salt which will greatly cut down your light. I could have moved the lamps closer to the water, but I wanted easy access for feeding & cleaning without having to lift the entire top of the hood.