Low mounted Light options for custom build

bleuchzsteve · May 5, 2022

Hi everyone !
I’m building my first tank, and have a bit of a unique build as I’m building it into my kitchen island. The tank will have a butcher block countertop mounted above it that will slide out to give me access to it. It’s a 55 gallon clear for life all in one acrylic tank. The issue I’m having is finding the best lighting to mount underneath the butcher block as it will be pretty low to the water.it will probably be only a few inches from the water.The tank came with a USA marine Strip but everything I’m reading says this isn’t the best light, especially if I want to do sps corals. The tank measures only 12” wide not including the back all in one section, by 46” long and 16” high. I guess I’m looking for the most cost effective lighting that I can buy while possibly adding to this USA marine strip I have or just getting all new . Thanks for any input!

reefwiser · May 6, 2022

SPS are very sensitive corals. I would recommend them for some one doing a first tank. You will have losses and will get discouraged fast. Best to go the LPS and Zoa’s the are hardy and can withstand the skills of a beginner.
That light is not much of a light. It would be best to look at something with an adjustable output. Since you are having to mount them so close to the water

bleuchzsteve · May 6, 2022

reefwiser said:
SPS are very sensitive corals. I would recommend them for some one doing a first tank. You will have losses and will get discouraged fast. Best to go the LPS and Zoa’s the are hardy and can withstand the skills of a beginner.
That light is not much of a light. It would be best to look at something with an adjustable output. Since you are having to mount them so close to the water

Thanks for the reply, yea I don’t plan on starting with any SPS, just want to get a light that can handle them in the future so I won’t have to upgrade. Do you have a specific brand / model that you could reccomend for a low mount?