Canopy vs. Light Fixture

[warden13]

I am thinking about purchasing a wood canopy & retro fitting T5 lighting for my 55 gal tank vs purchasing a Tek light (4 x 54). I am looking for some pros and cons. I am not sure if the savings on retro T5's would equal out with the purchase of a canopy. I heard a canopy setup may have heat issues. Would that mean I would need a fan? Any additional items that I may need to evaluate in my decision? Also, if anyone can recommend a site with reasonable canopies for a standard 55 gal (48 x 12 x 20(?) ). I am not interested in making my own (too much work). Thanks.

[warden13]

Any suggestions? :confused:

[blmeier7]

I am using the 4-54w Tek fixture for my 55g and have been very happy with it. I liked the idea of having an open top to keep the temp down in the summer. The only negative part of using a fixture over a canopy is having to select fish that aren't prone to jumping.

I have my fixture hanging from the ceiling cable mounts and it is very easy to raise the fixture for cleaning. This also makes it easy to raise or lower the light for acclimating corals if needed.

[gerry45]

using the tek light with an open top,does a lot of light shine into room if raised say 6" above tank?

[warden13]

Good question. Any comments?

[d4a2n0k]

I would go with the retro fit setup in a canopy. Two reasons:

The Icecap SLR reflectors slightly edge out the Tek Light reflectors performance wise. On top of that, you will be able to use an Icecap 660 ballast which will overdrive the bulbs which means even more light output using the same amount of bulbs.