View Full Version : 2 or 3 lights needed for a 180?
jjmatti
10/24/2006, 09:12 AM
I am setting up a 180RR (6ft long). Does it need to have three lights across or will two 250 watt bulbs do the trick? The tank has the braces across the top of the tank in two places so I am not sure how the light will disperse? anyone ever try going with only two??
dougchambers
10/24/2006, 10:18 AM
Part of the equation is to determine what you want to keep in your tank. The typical rule is one MH bulb per 2' of tank. In your case that would be three bulbs which should align better with the braces in the top of the tank. You might get by with two bulbs but there could be some shadowing from the braces.
-Doug
jjmatti
10/24/2006, 11:03 AM
I would like to keep SPS in this tank. I already have a tank with PC lights with a bunch of softies. I was originally planning on having 3 -250watt lamps but after seeing how well the tank lit up with just one bulb I thought I might be able to get away with it..
dougchambers
10/24/2006, 11:19 AM
You could always start with two and see how it goes. Most people end up upgrading to three 250W MH and some VHO or T5 Actinics.
-Doug
The Grim Reefer
10/24/2006, 11:22 AM
How your tank is braced can have an effect too. If it has one big center brace using 2 lamps isn't that hard. If it has 2 braces it is harder to do 2 lamps because the braces tend to be where you would want the lamps.
Acroholic
10/24/2006, 11:25 AM
For a 180 SPS... You should just go with the 3 250's......otherwise youll be putting another one in later.....anbd like Grim said..the braces are probably spaced where you want the lights anyways..
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