PDA

View Full Version : Lighting for a 20g long


Connie27
07/19/2007, 02:13 PM
Hey everyone!

I'm planning to move from my 6g nano to a 20g long. I wondered what light fixtures you recommend? I am thinking about a Current USA Sunpod 150watt HQI 14,000K. It seems the problem is the 30inch length limits the options. I plan on having a derasa clam, BTA and mushrooms mainly. I havent used MH before and I wanted to be sure that it was the best choice. I really appreciate everyones suggests and comments.

Thanks!

sir_dudeguy
07/19/2007, 02:24 PM
I'd do a T5 retro before i did MH. Try a 4 bulb retro and you should be able to grow anything in the middle section of the tank (you'll have to stagger the bulbs so that they go the length of the tank...24w bulbs are 24 inches.) and pretty close to whatever you want on the ends too.

Stirfry001
07/19/2007, 02:32 PM
sir_dudeguy, sent you a pm

sir_dudeguy
07/19/2007, 03:00 PM
Sent one back ;) Sorry for hijacking the thread connie!

Connie27
07/19/2007, 03:08 PM
No problem! Thanks for your reply regarding the T5 retro kit. I have a dumb question, though. If I have a standard AGA tank with no hood, do I need to build one or or there basic "frameworks" that can be bought to then add the retro kit? Not sure how all that works. Thanks!

Stirfry001
07/19/2007, 03:11 PM
I think most people build a canopy. I guess it depends on which reflectors you get but without a canopy I would think a lot of light would "leak" out.

sir_dudeguy
07/19/2007, 03:29 PM
Ya standard AGA tanks have a canopy to fit just about all of them... Shouldnt be hard to find.

I did see one person take one of those big reflectors (like a single reflector that fits like 4-6 bulbs or whatever, you know?) and drilled each individual reflector into the big one...and then hung the big one...but that didnt look the greatest and i'd think you could come up with something even easier than that that looks nicer.

Reefbox
07/19/2007, 03:35 PM
I think you will be fine with T-5's or MH's.

If you do go with T-5's, get a light that has individual bulb reflector's for much more light output.