Need Halide Reflector Help!

[Biglurr54]

I am building a 36x36x24 tank. It will be SPS dominated reef with a clam as the center piece in the sand bed. I am looking at how I will light the tank. I am sticking with a 14k Metal Halide with DIY 20RB/8UV LED supplements. Could I get away with a 250w m80 ballast halide with the right reflector? What reflector would work best for a 36 x 36 area while still penetrating 24 inches?

If I can not get away with a 250w then I can do a 400w halide. I would prefer the 250w as it will add less heat, less operating costs, and more bulb selection.

 

[mcarroll]

You desired mounting height would make a big difference as to the ideal reflector.

 

[Biglurr54]

My mounting height is open for discussion. I am doing a floating canopy so height can be adjusted and is unlimited.

 

[Ashish Patel]

I'd get the largest one you can find.. I believe hamilton has a 21"X21" that I was considering a while back and would only consider this for any wide dimension tank. Check out bonsai reef by thory he ran a large reflector on his 36"X36" with a single 400 watt bulb.

 

[Ashish Patel]

I am sure alot of reefers have reflectors sitting in their garage or something as I have some 250watt icecap ballast sitting in my parents basement. Perhaps make a thread titles "looking for MH reflector"!

 

[Biglurr54]

I believe that is the Hamilton cozumel reflector.


I do plan on searching out a used one as there aren't many being manufactured any longer. I am trying to figure out which is the right reflector for my system so I don't end up with the wrong reflectors when I post for used equipment.