light question

[Reilly Stv]

i am rehabbing a old 45 gallon high tank to a reef tank. This tank is a tall tank. Probably 24" high. How much light do I need. I'm thinking a MH / T5 combo. How many watts on the MH do I need, 150, 250? I want no light limitations on what i can put in here when done. But then again, not crazy about spending 700 on a light for a small tank....thoughts?? I'm thinkin i need the 250 but have no experience w/ MH

 

[magic]

At 24" deep you would need to go with the 250w especially if you are thinking of going with sps.

Bob

 

[mott768]

You don't have to run 250's on a 24" deep tank I run 175's on my 120 with no problems (8 clams and mostly SPS) will 250's be better, yes, but on a 45 Gallon you have to consider coast + heat + electric use. If none are a issue go with the 250's. If heat and cost is, then consider the 150DE/175SE's, to save money consider building/getting a canopy and doing retro's insted of buying a fixture.

 

[Phyl]

Retros are a particularly good idea if you're considering a future upgrade, as the pieces will be useful down the road.

 

[Reilly Stv]

thanks to all