Metal Halide Quastion

[psycho-killer]

how far should met halides be kept from the surface of the water ?

will i need a chiller ?

or will extractor fans work ?

 

[Lynden]

I keep mine about 4-6'' (haven't actually measured) from the surface and I have a large fan to keep things cool.

 

[Tommy Gun]

For supportive reasons only, I also keep my Mh fixture about three or four inches above my tank and use the good old fan 'trick' as well.

will i need a chiller ?

IMHO the best answer to this question is "it depends" since there are some variables in play. For example, when my 90 gallon tank was my saltwater tank, I was constantly struggling with the water temp being too high; even in the winter. However, now that I have upgraded to my 125, including upgrading some of my equipment, I am now using three heaters to keep the water temp from falling too far now that it is getting cold.

While I realize that it might be debatable advice, I might suggest buying the light system when you are ready/willing to purchase a chiller....just in case you will need it. Then observe the water temp closely to see if you are going to have a problem with enough heat to warrant a chiller or if you can get away with the fans, if you even need anything at all. Of course, the debatable part of that is if it makes any sense to take the risk when some other options are available, or if you cannot foresee being able to afford both at the same time, I wouldn't want to imply that you should 'settle' for something you don't really want such as PC or T5 lighting.

 

[sophos9]

will i need a chiller ?

or will extractor fans work ?

1 x 3.5inch extraction fan will take 180ltr tank down 1dC in 2hrs and at a guess, I would say this is a linear scale. Some would say buying a chiller is necessary, others may argue the point.

Not knowing your tank or stock, personally I would say get your lighting and watch the effect on temperature, if it exceeds your upper parameters then make a decision on what way to go...

 

[1entra]

Imo you should get the lighting, and let it run for a few days taking note of how much it effects your temp, if there isn't too big a difference then go for some fans as you should be able to get them quite cheap. If the fans do not work then I would recommending in investing in a chiller unit!

 

[SkiFletch]

I have 2x175watt halides in a 36x18x12" hood. With 4x120mm fans in there the temp stays well-controlled as long as the ambient temp in the room is 76 or lower