215g Lighting choices

[fishytyme]

Hello Everyone,

I am in the process of picking out equipment for my new 215g and i just wanted to make sure i make the right choices. As of right now i am really loving the Aquactinics T5 Constellation 72" Series. It runs on 14 39w T5s. My tank dim are 72X24X30H. Do you guys think this will be a good fit for my tank? My biggest concern is the how deep this tank is. Will i lose good strong lighting towards the bottom of the tank?

Thanks for anyones input

 

[acronautical]

3 250 watt hqi's, plus T5's would do the trick.

 

[coral88]

You would have no problem with light at the bottom of your tank with that fixture but you would have to replace a lot of bulbs every 8-12 months.

 

[fishytyme]

thanks for the reply. i currently do not want to go towards the MH/T5 route but i might change my mind. If i can the t5 can provide enough lighting i think i will probably just end up with t5 only lighting.

 

[Fish n' Frags]

I just ordered an AquaIllumination setup for my new tank. Just for the purpose of staying "green" i would at least consider it!

 

[fishytyme]

I just ordered an AquaIllumination setup for my new tank. Just for the purpose of staying "green" i would at least consider it!

lol i wouldnt mind trying out LED and for the purpose of staying "green" but its a bit out of my budget. I get the that light then i cant buy corals from you!
:bigsmile:

 

[Fish n' Frags]

LOL, it will pay itself off, but it will take a long time to do so! Plus, your already sitting on high end corals, might as well have a high end lighting system!

 

[AlexStinson]

I had a deep sea 215 for a long time here in the store, and we lit it with 2 400watt halides raised about 18". Optimally I would do three, cause it's obnoxious center brace left a good shadow