Which wattage to go with

Slick Fork · #1 04/22/2007, 01:20 PM

Hi there,

Was just wondering if anybody could help me out with a typical new to MH question!!

I'm just wondering, which type of fixture to go with... It's a 60L X 18" W X 24" Tall tank. I've got ~150lbs LR and plan on keeping some of the easier sps (for now), LPS, and a few softies!

Could you guys recommend whether I should be using 150 watt, 175 watt, or 250 watt? SE or HQI?

Thank you

hahnmeister · #2 04/22/2007, 01:30 PM

two 250wattDE/HQI bulbs would be my pick.

joedirt54 · #3 04/22/2007, 05:03 PM

ditto

KENM · #4 04/23/2007, 08:23 AM

You didn't mention the type of setup that you have ie; freestanding, freestanding w/canopy, inwall. The only reason I ask is because if the tank is inwall and the lighting assembly is hidden by a wall, you can use the bulkier s.e. equipment and save money regardless of the wattage. I have a diy twin 175 watt s.e. m.h. fixture for just over $180.00 w/shipping. The most expensive parts were the bulbs. My tank is 18" deep and the 175's are more than sufficient IMO.

Slick Fork · #5 04/23/2007, 11:27 AM

Thanks for the suggestions.

It's an inwall set-up, I just found a deal on a Giesemann 230 (2x250watt HQI, 2x54watt t5) 48" fixture. It's about $150 cdn more than a DIY setup with the 175 watts and a tek t5 retrofits. This seems like a pretty good deal to me!

Thanks again