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View Full Version : Which light for 45 cube?


rsg4
07/17/2012, 09:43 AM
I'm at the point to where I need to get my light for my tank. I really like some of the new led units coming out now. But I keep thinking maybe I should wait and just do MH. Anyone have a 45 cube or similar with MH and no heat issues? Or same with leds instead? Just looking for feedback on your system and how you like it. Thanks.

rsg4
07/19/2012, 05:38 AM
Anyone?

Entropy
07/19/2012, 09:18 AM
I would just go with a single 250w 14k Phoenix and call it a day. Heat should not be an issue if you run a pendant and the top is not sealed in a canopy. Color will be great and you can grow just about anything you want. Actually you could probably get away with the 150w version just as well.

rsg4
07/19/2012, 09:53 AM
I do have a canopy, but the top is wide open as is the back too. That's been my concern with MH. I just don't want to add a chiller. With a fan added to the canopy, would I have any issues with heat? Also I don't want to have to use my AC to cool the room down anymore than I normally do. It's usually about 75-78 in my house during the summer time. Thanks again.

JAustin
07/19/2012, 10:46 AM
250w hqi with lumin max elite or luminbright pendant. You won't need a chiller. Just a fan.

Entropy
07/19/2012, 12:19 PM
With an open canopy you should be fine with the room at 78F. I have a similar setup (well 3-4 times bigger), and the lighting (250w MH + 130w PC) raises the water temp about .5 degrees by the end of the day with the room 78-79F. The coldest my tank gets is 79F (heater setting) and the hottest I have seen it this summer is 80.7F (AC off downstairs). A small fan would probably help, but mine doesn't kick in until 82F. The light will heat your room though, but not more than a old TV or a computer IMO.

rsg4
07/20/2012, 06:10 PM
Thanks for the input. I've decided to try out MH for now. I got a M58 ballast. I know not the best, but for now it's a start. What type of bulb for a 250w SE in 20k range? XM and Ushio is about all I can find along so far. Any recomendations? If this works well enough I'll switch ballast for a Radium or Phoenix.