When do you replace your MH bulbs?

[reefkeeper2]

I am curious as to how long people run their MH bulbs before they replace them. I am presently using 250watt AB 10000Ks and they are about one year old. Is it time or can I get another few months out of them?

[kdblove_99]

Hamilton technology recommends replacing European Metal Halide Lamps every 14-18 months & U.S. made Metal Halide Lamps every 9-12 months.

[RobsReefs]

this is a good article that could change the 12 month typical changeout schedule http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2007-04/ac/index.php

[reefkeeper2]

Thanks, thats just the info I was looking for.

[BeanAnimal]

Sanjay and others have done some research showing that you can go much longer. Even at (3) years you could still be getting more than 60% of the original light!

[VaderWS6]

I change mine once a year.

[mg426]

Not as often as I should.