Any problems with hanging lights from ceiling with ati hanging kit?

Bigfish93 · Jan 31, 2016

Just bought a ati 48 8x54 t5 and was curious if anyone has had issues with hanging lights from the ceiling with the toggle bolts. It seems so flimsy but I haven't read anything online that states anyone has had problems with it. Seems like this question has been asked but I'm just wanting to make sure this is a reliable option. I would hate having my light fall into my reef.

I have seen different options of making brackets and attaching them to the studs in the ceiling but was wondering if that is needed.

And info would be appreciated!

reacclimating 2 the hobby · Jan 31, 2016

I just hung a 6x24 24in light from a not so great ceiling. It works very well. My question is how to lower it now that I've got it up. The bottom screw appears to control the side to side adjustments, is the top screw how you would lower it?? Otherwise, hanging kit is simple and works well.

smh254 · Jan 31, 2016

reacclimating 2 the hobby said:
I just hung a 6x24 24in light from a not so great ceiling. It works very well. My question is how to lower it now that I've got it up. The bottom screw appears to control the side to side adjustments, is the top screw how you would lower it?? Otherwise, hanging kit is simple and works well.

Push down on the top little tip. Be careful the light will come down when you push that tip make sure you hold it up.

ImageUploadedByREEF2REEF1454290746.729300.jpg

smh254 · Jan 31, 2016

You will need to hold the light up slightly to push the tip in.

reacclimating 2 the hobby · Jan 31, 2016

Wow I feel slightly stupid lol... that was super easy. Thanks!

Bigfish93 · Jan 31, 2016

The weight of the 48' x8 seems like it is to heavy for the drywall to support. I haven't been able to find any articles of people who it has failed on, so I guess it will be ok?

Jimbo · Jan 31, 2016

I used toggle bolts for extra support.. I only have the 8x24 watt fixture though

reef_junkie · Jan 31, 2016

Drywall anchors can do more than you think. I use these to not only suspend long and heavy lights over tanks but also to permanently install safety bars for seniors. They come in two sizes, 3/16" or 1/4". I have not needed the 1/4" yet.

dbl · Jan 31, 2016

Toggle bolts are typically rated by weight. If you're still nervous about it (and your lights don't line up with the studs), you may be able to screw a piece of decorative wood in to the studs, and then the light hangers in to the wood. Just paint the wood the same color as the ceiling. Just a suggestion.

reef_junkie · Jan 31, 2016

http://www.mycablemart.com/store/ca...bImvl9pC2qOwckSzjJh0YrypHjOQXRjwMSxoC15Tw_wcB

smh254 · Jan 31, 2016

That's a big light I would put some kind of brace across the ceiling if you can. You don't want to be nervous every time you raise and lower it for tank maintenance.

Fin · Jan 31, 2016

Following... I just got a 48" (8T5/3LED) ATI Powermodule and I am a bit uneasy having that light hanging from that cable rig. Would not be good having that heavy light fall on a brand new tank that I have been waiting over 8 months to get. Mulling over other options myself. ATI is supposed to working on a tank mount for their fixtures, but it will be a while before those ever get to market.

jaguars4263 · Jan 31, 2016

I used the toggle bolts. Installed them about 2 months ago with no problems. I'm sure if they wouldn't hold ATI wouldn't send them with the fixture.

ermartin · Jan 31, 2016

i had 3 AI sols hanging for about 3 years without issue i have since replace with 2 ap700's and again no issues

Bigfish93 · Jan 31, 2016

My concern isn't so much the bolts holding the weight of the light fixture, I'm sure they can, my concern is the drywall being able to support the weight without causing warping/damage to the drywall.

Fin · Jan 31, 2016

The Powermodule I have weighs 25+ pounds. Like mentioned above, I guess I am more worried about the strength of the drywall ceiling. I would put supports in between the ceiling joists and mount to them, if I use the kit. I have a friend that is a metal fabricator. Looking at possibilities of what a tank mount might look like and if it would be feasible to use. He made one for his 45 gallon and it came out really nice. This heavy light is a different animal though.