Metal Halide question

[Masgatigata]

Do you guys thing that 2 X 250 would be too much for a standard 55 gallon? The fixture also include 4 t5 bulbs as well. I'm thinking it might be too much but through research I'm reading mixed thoughts. Any advice?

 

[Newb_reefer1]

What are the dimensions of your tank ? On my 55g cube I have a single 250w mh fixture that provides plenty of light

 

[Masgatigata]

48x12.5x21

 

[Mr V]

It depended on what coral you gonna stock.
2 Metal Halide are not much for the 48" tank if you stock sps. I have 1x250 on my 36" and it dark on the sides.

With 4x t5, It will be good for actinic suppliment. That fixture definitely good for you tank.

 

[Masgatigata]

What about heating issues? Do you think the 2x 250s might be overkill? I keep ac on all day and I currently have a fan blowing over the tank. My tank is predominantly sps with some lps.

 

[wildcrazyjoker81]

It is a great or SPS. Are you amounting the light or trying to use legs? That light will probably need to be 8-10 inches off the water. Might need a chiller too.

 

[Masgatigata]

I will be hanging the fixture from the ceiling so that I can raise it as much as I need to.

 

[wildcrazyjoker81]

You should be fine then. I run a 3x250W and 4 bulb T5 on a 150 and my chiller kicks on once or twice a day with the house set at 76. So a couple fans should work great.

 

[Mr V]

With the 48", 1x250 is not enough for sure. It will cover the central only.
If you worry about heat,go with LED fixture, or at least do 2x150w

 

[Masgatigata]

Ok, thank you!