how many actinics should i use?

snowman82 · 07/19/2009, 07:42 PM

I am working on building a 120. the 4x2x2 size. and i am doing 2 250w halides with either T5 or VHO actinics. i already have everything for VHO but they are the 48" bulbs and well exactly the same size as the hood so dont think i can run them cause i have waterproof endcaps. but was wanting to go with T5's since there are more options for bulbs as i really like the color of some of the ATI bulbs and such. but i guess to the main question can i get away with just having 2 bulbs going with T5's? will be a mix reef. be moving everything from my 125 to it.

PSU REEFER · 07/20/2009, 09:19 PM

I ran 2-48'' Vho's on my 150 tall that was 4' w/ waterproof endcaps if that helps.

grigsy · 07/20/2009, 09:43 PM

T12 VHO actinics are nicer looking compared to T5 actinics.

UV lighting makes a nice super actinic blue bulb and their 454 bulb is also nice looking (a bit brighter and more royal blue in color)

07/19/2009, 07:42 PM	#1
snowman82 Registered Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Beacon, IA Posts: 190	how many actinics should i use? I am working on building a 120. the 4x2x2 size. and i am doing 2 250w halides with either T5 or VHO actinics. i already have everything for VHO but they are the 48" bulbs and well exactly the same size as the hood so dont think i can run them cause i have waterproof endcaps. but was wanting to go with T5's since there are more options for bulbs as i really like the color of some of the ATI bulbs and such. but i guess to the main question can i get away with just having 2 bulbs going with T5's? will be a mix reef. be moving everything from my 125 to it.

07/20/2009, 09:19 PM	#2
PSU REEFER Registered Member Join Date: May 2007 Location: Midlothian, VA Posts: 713	I ran 2-48'' Vho's on my 150 tall that was 4' w/ waterproof endcaps if that helps. __________________ Rob __________ __________________ Current Tank Info: 500g w/ a few fish & little coral, but that will change. 4 MH(400w-2-10K & 2-20k), 4-6' VHO, CL thru eurobracing, 2-Tunze's, OCT 5000ext., RKE, 2-550's LFR(GFO & Carbon), 2-part, and more equipment to add down the road.

07/20/2009, 09:43 PM	#3
grigsy Registered Member Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Santa Cruz, CA Posts: 2,307	T12 VHO actinics are nicer looking compared to T5 actinics. UV lighting makes a nice super actinic blue bulb and their 454 bulb is also nice looking (a bit brighter and more royal blue in color)