Sun light question

Defect · Feb 25, 2014

I have heard you are not supposed to have any DIRECT sun light. I am thinking I can just get a few dark colored curtains. The direct light is only for about 1 1/2 hours in the morning and hardly any gets through the shades . Any ideas? I asked this same question on my tank thread but figured I would be better to ask here.

Thanks

Reefing Madness · Feb 25, 2014

Don't worry about it. I get direct sunlight in my tank for the morning hours also, doesn't do a thing to the tank. As long as your water params are in order, you won't go growing any kind of junk thats unwanted.

Bad Company · Feb 25, 2014

The issue is three fold:
1. Heat: sunlgiht will warm your tank. If you don't have a problem with the heat, it's a non issue, but if you are running hot, it just makes the problem worse.
2. Algae growth. Some people control algae blooms by limiting their photo period on their main display tank lighting. You can't "dial" the sun's timer back. If it gets direct sunlight only a few hours out of the day, I wouldn't worry. Also, curtains if necessary.
3. Windows tend to be poorer insulators than the walls. Make sure your heater(s) can keep the tank warm i nthe winter.

Cheers!