430 or 660 ballast for 2,3 or 4x24 t-5

[qckslvr76]

Hey guys,

I'm getting ready to purchase my t-5 retro for my 29 gal. What ballast can be used on these set-ups?

3x24w t-5
4x24w t-5


Would 1 660 be able to handle the 4?

Also would like to know if 4 24w t-5 is too much lighting for a 29gal? 30x12x18

I don't have any corals yet but plan on starting out with beginner type.

Thanks,

Chris

[qckslvr76]

Also are fans necessary for any of these appllications? The lights will be in a DIY canopy and be about 3-4" from the top.

[ASH]

A Model 660 could handle the 4 easily.
You will need a fan to vent off lamp heat to get the most light and lamp-life out of them. Three may be the max that size tank can take.

Andy

[qckslvr76]

Thanks Ash. So your saying I should go with 3 24w t-5's in a 29gal? Could I use the 430 and be able to run 3 24w efficiently?

[ASH]

We have not had great success with 3 lamp T-5 HO applications for the Model 430.

Depending on what Kelvin lamps you select, 3 or 4 lamps would work. If they're all 6.5K then 3 would seem like too much. If they're all 10K or higher I'd go for 4.

Andy