Aquarium Lighting – Metal Halide – Saltwater Reef – Effects and Precautions?
I’ve got a 24 gallon saltwater reef tank, and I just got in the mail my new 250 watt metal halide system (15,000k). Prior, I’ve been using a 120 watt compact fluorescent system. My question is what special precautions should I be mindful of as I install this new system:
- Heat?
- UV penetration effecting the health of the fish?
- Dangerous effects from the light on people (the light will be hanging from the ceiling and will be in a living room)?
- Any other concerns?
Thanks.
You’ll need to replace the bulbs quite often. Typically, every nine months to a year or so.
Heat is a HUGE issue. You’ll need to ensure good fans keep it cool. Monitor your water temp regularly because the lights will heat up the water (especially a 24 gallon tank). Noise will definitely get annoying. The fan motors can get quite loud if the tank’s in your living room.
Algae will also become a factor since the lights will definitely promote more growth.
Don’t forget that you are controlling the “sun” for the tank so you should consider putting it on a regular cycle so the fish and coral get used to a set schedule.
Water evaporation will happen quicker now, so your salinity levels should be closely monitored too.
Safety issue: I would refrain from running the light when you’re not home. Treat it like your dryer… typically its safe, but you never want to leave it unmonitored due to fire hazzards.
DIY Reef Tank Metal Halides Part 2
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