20L or 20H for my nano reef build

[Dave VG]

Maybe I worded the subject line wrong being that I got no responses in my last post so I'll try it again with this one.

Ok so I have to downgrade my 90 mixed reef that is SPS dominated due to some changes in my life. I have 2 tank choices, a twenty high or a twenty long. I’m leaning towards the long for its extra real estate due to its length. I would like to use equipment I have laying around so here’s what I’m planning. Of course the 20L or 20H, a 250 watt SE retro in a hood not sure if this will be to much light but I plan to mount it high?? Two 228 Power sweeps one at each end. A thirty gal refuge with a CSS 125 skimmer, LR and cheato in it. I figure the middle will be good for the high light SPS I decide to keep and the ends will be good for the lower light SPS and LPS. What do you think?? Looking forward to your input and suggestions.

Thanks

[BradsOcean]

I'd go with a 20L! I like the more real-estate too

[LISound]

having a 20H, you have more room for vertical growth, since you'll be using MH.
Going longer is nice but you may not have many options as far as rock and coral placement... That MH would have to be fairly high off the water or you'll cook everything.

why not a 29...best of both worlds IMO. you get a bit extra length and height.

[Dave VG]

BradsOcean, LISound thank you for the input. LISound a 29 would be a better choice and one I may have to make because of the light. The thing is I have these tanks laying around. I guess I could see if anyone in my area has either a 29 or a different light. I would rather not have to buy anything. Guess I could try to barter for this stuff lol

[Mark426]

A 20L is one of the nicest nano tanks around....but...with the 250W light I would either go with the 20H or trade/buy another light. The 20H are hard to aquascape IMO...narrow and tall are always tough. If I were setting up a new tank..a 20L with a mid priced T5 fixture would be my choice.

[E.intheC]

I have a 20 long and would rather go with a 20 high, just because I personally feel the 20 Long isn't tall enough. I find it to be tougher to aquascape, but that's just me.

With a 20 High it's easier to place powerheads as well..

[Dave VG]

Man you all have good points and have me re-thinking this whole endever. Glad I posted here before setting anything in stone. Maybe a 29 would be the best route. Height and length wise. Starting to re-think the lighting as well. Hummm