Lighting Recommendation needed

LIReefer · 04/24/2008, 01:05 PM

I need some help in identifying a decent lighting set up for a 84x30x30 FOWLR set up. Right now the tank is a full blown reef set up with 4 - 400w and 8 - 24" VHO's, but I've had it with the high cost of electric. My monthly electric bill is $900/month and I haven't even started the AC or the pool yet. So I'm planning on eliminating the coral and going FOWLR. So I'm looking for some suggestions on a good set up that will enhance the colors of the fish, keep the tank somewhat bright and is energy efficient.

Thanks

fishdoc11 · 04/24/2008, 07:10 PM

Maybe just use the VHO's you have. Assuming they are atinics replacing half with atinic whites (UVL) should still give you some coraline growth and show off the color of your fish. If your setup is flexible you could probably even go with 4' bulbs and cut them down to four to make things easier. If you want the most light for your electricity buck a few T5's would be another good option.
Chris

04/24/2008, 01:05 PM	#1
LIReefer Registered Member Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: East Meadow, NY Posts: 488	Lighting Recommendation needed I need some help in identifying a decent lighting set up for a 84x30x30 FOWLR set up. Right now the tank is a full blown reef set up with 4 - 400w and 8 - 24" VHO's, but I've had it with the high cost of electric. My monthly electric bill is $900/month and I haven't even started the AC or the pool yet. So I'm planning on eliminating the coral and going FOWLR. So I'm looking for some suggestions on a good set up that will enhance the colors of the fish, keep the tank somewhat bright and is energy efficient. Thanks __________________ - Ed Current Tank Info: 325 gal in-wall, 200g sump w/refugium. 4 VorTech MP60's, Neptune Sky’s, Lifereef Skimmer, Complete Apex systems

04/24/2008, 07:10 PM	#2
fishdoc11 catch and release Join Date: Dec 2003 Location: Old Hickory,TN Posts: 13,237	Maybe just use the VHO's you have. Assuming they are atinics replacing half with atinic whites (UVL) should still give you some coraline growth and show off the color of your fish. If your setup is flexible you could probably even go with 4' bulbs and cut them down to four to make things easier. If you want the most light for your electricity buck a few T5's would be another good option. Chris __________________ "Try to learn something about everything and everything about something" -- Thomas H. Huxley Current Tank Info: 70 gallon mixed reef