400 Mh = ??t5

lewismw · #1 09/21/2007, 01:55 PM

Hi-
I am looking to replace my 3 400W 2000K MHs on a 6' 125Gal Tank. I am looking into the T5s because of heat and energy efficiency.
Can anyone suggest a good replacement wattage of T5s that will compare to the 400W MH?
I have heard about the aquatinics brand. Thoughts?

oct2274 · #2 09/21/2007, 02:02 PM

well, i'm not sure you will get enough T5 on a tank that small to equal 3 400 Watt halides, but seriously, that is way overkill on that tank. I have a tank that size with 2 150 14k halides and 4 T5HO's and I can keep SPS on the bottom of my tank.......... You would be fine with a 6 bulb fixture or retro. If you want more you can get a 6 bulb fixture or retro that uses icecap ballasts to overdrive the bulbs.

lewismw · #3 09/21/2007, 02:09 PM

well is there a "rule of thumb" for MH to T5 conversion?

sabbath · #4 09/21/2007, 02:16 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by lewismw
well is there a "rule of thumb" for MH to T5 conversion?

The rule is the one with the better reflector & ballast will win. I would up grade your MH. Maybe get a 250w with a high end luminarc reflector. You will most likely get more light than you have now.

SlowCobra · #5 09/21/2007, 02:51 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by sabbath
The rule is the one with the better reflector & ballast will win. I would Down grade your MH. Maybe get a 250w with a high end luminarc reflector. You will most likely get more light than you have now.

Fixed

3 - 400's is beyond overkill. Throttle back on the MH's and you will remove a ton of problems.

samsfishnchips · #6 09/21/2007, 03:49 PM

overkill lighting,

250w are more than enough,

have friend with 6' 125g and just two 250w, spider type reflector, and that tank can keep sps just fine and is let completely,

sam