Blue lighting options for small space

wuster77 · 02/17/2009, 02:53 PM

Hi everyone. So I am trying to figure out what blue lighting option I have for my corner tank. I currently have a 6x18w Nova Extreme Pro over the tank that I got last Christmas. The lighting is sufficient, but can be improved. The problem is bulb choices is limited to the 2 types made by Current, but I want a slightly bluer look. I came up with the following three possibilities:

1) PC lighting
2) LED, probably using something weak like 2 Powerbrites.
3) 70w metal halides with 20k bulbs.

The biggest issue with my tank is its shape since it's a corner tank. Since the space is very limited (about 6in by 6in, maybe slightly bigger), what would be the best option?

On a side note, I don't have a chiller, so if the halides are going to heat up the water a lot, then I guess that option is out. I didn't go with halides originally due to possible heat issues since I don't have air condition at home.

I understand that PC bulbs need to be replaced often, so I am not sure if that is economical. On the other hand halides might heat things up. The LED doesn't require replacement bulbs, but don't think they will benefit the corals.

If there are any other options, please post them too.

Thanks everyone!

02/17/2009, 02:53 PM	#1
wuster77 Registered Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: So Cal Posts: 167	Blue lighting options for small space Hi everyone. So I am trying to figure out what blue lighting option I have for my corner tank. I currently have a 6x18w Nova Extreme Pro over the tank that I got last Christmas. The lighting is sufficient, but can be improved. The problem is bulb choices is limited to the 2 types made by Current, but I want a slightly bluer look. I came up with the following three possibilities: 1) PC lighting 2) LED, probably using something weak like 2 Powerbrites. 3) 70w metal halides with 20k bulbs. The biggest issue with my tank is its shape since it's a corner tank. Since the space is very limited (about 6in by 6in, maybe slightly bigger), what would be the best option? On a side note, I don't have a chiller, so if the halides are going to heat up the water a lot, then I guess that option is out. I didn't go with halides originally due to possible heat issues since I don't have air condition at home. I understand that PC bulbs need to be replaced often, so I am not sure if that is economical. On the other hand halides might heat things up. The LED doesn't require replacement bulbs, but don't think they will benefit the corals. If there are any other options, please post them too. Thanks everyone!