pc to dual metal halide on 55gal

Navycook2

New member
Ok so my local fish store is moving and was selling everything soo he gave me a great deal on on of the metal halide systems with ne bulbs and extra ballast. What do u guys reccomend on how to introduce the new lighting with out burning everythin?
 
Nice. Details?

You can start by shortening your photo period. 2 hours 1st day or two and increase an hour every couple days. You can also do the screen method. Run your regular photo period but have several layers of window screen on top of the tank. Then every few days take a layer off.
 
One way is to go to the hardware store and buy sheets of window screen. Cut the screen and lay 8 layers of it on top of your tank. Run your MH's for a normal light cycle and every 3 or 4 days remove 1 sheet of screen. After about a month, you'll have full unobstructed light. Another way is to seriously cut back on your light cycle and only run the MH's for a few hours a day. Gradually leave the lights on longer until you're back to your normal cycle.

If possible, you can also hang the lights very high and gradually lower them to where you want them.

It sounds like you're already aware that going from pc's to mh's can fry everything if care is not taken to acclimate to the new light. Also, depending on your livestock, you still might need to move much of it to your sandbed.
 
Nice. Details?

You can start by shortening your photo period. 2 hours 1st day or two and increase an hour every couple days. You can also do the screen method. Run your regular photo period but have several layers of window screen on top of the tank. Then every few days take a layer off.

Must have ben typing at the same time :thumb:
 
Right on!! I think ill try the screen method!! i think i may also build a lift of 2x4 to hold it up!! the fixture is hamilton technology and I think they are 2x250w bulbs with 2x70w pc!
 
Oh and an update!! I just purchased a R/O unit today as well so Now i have a R/O unit and better lighting!!
So Im on to a better and healthier reef!!
 
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