lighting for a 37 gallon reef tank.

[mtkid6]

Looking for ideas for possible lighting options for a 37 gallon reef tank. I am just getting started do I am looking for specific systems that are working for others.

 

[Bifferwine]

This would be good.

250W Metal Halide Pendant Lights

What is the length of the tank?

 

[mtkid6]

The tank is 30" wide.

 

[dcantucson]

The T5HO fixtures are mostly 24" or 36"
I think what Biff listed would work best in your situation. It you don't want a MH then do a google search and look at every kind available. You need a minimum of approx. 150 watts to keep most corals.

 

[mtkid6]

I would prefer to stay away from MH so if anyone else has good options it would be much appreciated.

 

[Bifferwine]

May I ask why?

You will have a tough time finding a 30" T5 fixture. There are a couple out there, but the bulbs are staggered, so there is less light on each end. This is because they don't make T5 bulbs in a 30" length.

 

[mtkid6]

30in 4Bulbs fixtures

Any chance this would work?

 

[Bifferwine]

That would be enough light to keep low-light corals, but not strong enough for other corals such as LPS, SPS, or clams/anemones. That's just over 2 watts per gallon and does not appear to have individual reflectors.

 

[mtkid6]

I was told that if I go with MH I wquld likely need a chiller so I was hoping to not have to go that route.

 

[Bifferwine]

You probably won't need a chiller. Very few people in this hobby require one. That's a common misconception.

 

[mtkid6]

any experience with these?

Marineland Reef Capable LED Lights Unveiled

 

[mtkid6]

My tank has a canopy on it and I don't think a MH would work for that. Please correct me if I am wrong. I have found a PC with 130 watts. I am shoot for 150 but its pretty tough to find in 30". Any suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[dcantucson]

Did you see our new sponsor Thomas' site?

Sea World Metal Halide Lamp 24 "(250W×1)

 

[mtkid6]

I did see that. Can you run a MH under a canopy?

 

[dcantucson]

Yes you can, in fact many do however they are usually not fixtures but bare components, such as in retro fit kits.

 

[mtkid6]

Does anyone have experience with the new sponsor's lights. What a great price.

 

[Bifferwine]

Does anyone have experience with the new sponsor's lights. What a great price.

Not me, but they look good.

 

[mtkid6]

If I got the 250 watt MH like he has listed and mounted it under the canopy it would only be about 4 inches from the surface. Seems a bit close for me. Any thoughts?

 

[venne]

...i would use leds...

 

[mtkid6]

Got any good affordable LED suggestions.