OVAS

Aquarist Forums => Equipment / DIY => Topic started by: tskinner on April 16, 2009, 09:16:59 PM

Title: MH on Nano Tank....
Post by: tskinner on April 16, 2009, 09:16:59 PM
Anyone think a 70W MH would be overkill on a 5.5 Gal tank.  Currently running 2x18Watt T5 but wanna add some more light to the tank, am I crazy  :D or would this work?  Don't be afraid to tell me I'm crazy......lol.  I have some SPS frags I'd like to add and would like alittle more light in this tank.  I've look at the Powerbrite LEDs but do those actually do anything?  Or maybe retrofit a PC lamp in??
Title: Re: MH on Nano Tank....
Post by: beertech on April 16, 2009, 11:14:38 PM
It wouldn't be overkill at all. I currently have a 150 MH over my 10 gal nano, and it's awesome! I have it packed full of very healthy SPS, LPS, softies and a Crocea clam.
Title: Re: MH on Nano Tank....
Post by: Vincenzo. on April 16, 2009, 11:43:51 PM
in all honesty i think that thats such a waste in power. but if you dont mind the electricity bill. go for it
Title: Re: MH on Nano Tank....
Post by: Stussi613 on April 17, 2009, 09:09:54 AM
I've been playing around with the idea of using one of the 35w HID car headlight conversion kits with a "home made" reflector for an upcoming nano/pico tank I'm planning.  They come in various colour temps, and if you could get a 120 to 12v adapter it might be the perfect solution for a smaller tank...and at ~$120 for a set of two it's cost effective if you want to share with a friend.
Title: Re: MH on Nano Tank....
Post by: jeffd on April 17, 2009, 01:16:07 PM
I would like to hear how you make out with this idea Stussie613. Interesting idea. An inexpensive 12v dc power supply would do the trick.
Title: Re: MH on Nano Tank....
Post by: Sharbuckle on April 17, 2009, 01:19:22 PM
i have a 70w halide over my 15g with 2x24w of t5 and ive never had any complants
Title: Re: MH on Nano Tank....
Post by: tskinner on April 19, 2009, 10:23:02 PM
Quote from: Sharbuckle on April 17, 2009, 01:19:22 PM
i have a 70w halide over my 15g with 2x24w of t5 and ive never had any complants

Hey.  Just wondering if your build was a DIY.  If not, what are using?  If so, what exactly are you using....ballast, reflector?? Do you a pic of it on your tank.  Just wondering cause I've heard so much about the light not being good on them.  70Watts is my only option on a 5.5 and I can't come across anything smaller than 150 watt.  So any info you can give me would be great cause I might end up building my own.

Thanks again....
Tyson
Title: Re: MH on Nano Tank....
Post by: tskinner on April 22, 2009, 02:49:20 PM
Just a question and its alittle off topic.....I'm in the process of purchasing a used metal halide fixture from a fellow reefer in the US.  Will a be charged duty for this when it arrives since its just a package being sent personally rather than from a store???
Title: Re: MH on Nano Tank....
Post by: Stussi613 on April 26, 2009, 11:55:17 PM
if it was made in the USA or Mexico you only have to pay taxes on it, if it was made elsewhere then you have to pay duty on the declared value.  If it's from a person your best bet is to get them to declare the value as conservatively as possible.  I'm not trying to tell you to be dis-honest and put a $1 on the bill, but something reasonable would probably help... ;D

Quote from: tskinner on April 22, 2009, 02:49:20 PM
Just a question and its alittle off topic.....I'm in the process of purchasing a used metal halide fixture from a fellow reefer in the US.  Will a be charged duty for this when it arrives since its just a package being sent personally rather than from a store???