6x54w ati questions

[GratefulReef]

So on wed I am getting a 6x54w ati powermodule fixture, this will be replacing my deepblue solarmax he 4x54w fixture. I rent and am unable to put holes into the ceiling for normal mounting of this light. I was wondering if I could run the light right on the rim of the tank, and start out with 4 bulbs, after a week or so add another bulb then a week or so after that add the last bulb to help acclimate the livestock to the new higher power light. Would I be able to run this fixture on the rim of the tank, I was also throwing around the idea of making two post type things that go on each side of the stand and have something for the wire to connect to so it could simulate it being screwed into the ceiling.

 

[MarineDepot]

I wouldn't recommend putting this directly on the tank as it doesn't have any legs/stands. Besides damage to the fixture, if it's too close to the water level it may stress out / bleach your coral. You may wish to find a mounting solution first. there are some hanging options that are tank back mounted such as the AquaticLife Stand Light Fixture Hangers (2 Hangers). These would attach to the back of the aquarium stand, and then you would hang the light using the hanging wires from these Fixture Hangers. It gives you the floating fixture look, without having to install directly into your ceiling. I hope this helps.

​

Chris

 

[creefer]

FWIW....I recently upgraded to an ATI sunpower 6 x 39W on my 36 x 18 x 15 tank. I was using another brand 6 x 39W T5 prior and it was installed about 6" above the water line. With the same bulb combo, I have had to mount the Sunpower " about the water. It kicks out a TON of light. You will be pleased with that. As far as hanging it, be sure you get the hanging kit with the light. Determine how high you're going to have it allowing yourself the opportunity to mount high and lower it over a period of a couple weeks to its ideal height and your tank's demands. Once that is determined, go to Lowes or Home Depot and buy some 3/4" rigid steel conduit and have them bend it for you. Drill holes through it for the hanging kit, paint it with Krylon, and fasten them to the back of your stand using conduit straps and call it a day. Works great and very inexpensive.

 

[shellynjason]

I have the ATI sunpower with the hanging kit and the two holes that go into the ceiling on a stud are only as big as the screws.

Seems you could patch that with minimal putty when you move, shouldn't be worse then hanging pictures on the wall.

 

[ReeferBob]

I have the ATI sunpower with the hanging kit and the two holes that go into the ceiling on a stud are only as big as the screws.

Seems you could patch that with minimal putty when you move, shouldn't be worse then hanging pictures on the wall.

+1 all you need is 2 drywall screws if you can get them in a stud - molly bolts otherwise. You can patch that 1/8" hole with a tiny dot of spackle or just ignore it.