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Unread 08/15/2008, 09:42 PM   #1
fishyfish91202
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Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: Pompano Beach
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New to MH Lighting Need Help

I have recently installed 3 250w XM 10K bulbs with Lumenarc reflectors in a 375 mixed reef, no SPS. I am not satisfied with the tanks/corals coloration. I probably need a little more blue spectrum. I originally was going to add some actinic blue supplements, but I am concerned about adding any more wattage that may increase the tanks temperature. I am currently running from 82.2 - 83 degrees without any fans or chillers and want to keep it that way.
My question is, Can I just change to maybe a 14K Hamilton bulb, or Radium 20K in the middle section, light that say 10am to 10pm and run the 10Ks like 2pm - 8pm? That would give me the dusk/dawn effect, but how would/do MH tanks appear when mixing bulbs like that? The middle lumenarc throws light to both ends of the 8' tank.
I would truly appreciate your opinions.
Thanks!


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Unread 08/17/2008, 07:41 AM   #2
fishyfish91202
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Does anybody mix MH bulbs like this?


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Unread 08/17/2008, 09:23 AM   #3
mfinn
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Location: Olympia. WA.
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I don't think you'd be happy with that.
Why not add a IceCap ballast with a couple VHO bulbs, and add a fan or two.
Your temp is a little too high now.

Or why not go with 12K or 14k bulbs all the way?
I use 3x 14k 250 watt bulbs on my softy tank and use VHO actinic


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