MH mag. vs. elec.?

[vivas]

i'm back on this forum with another question. recently bought an 80 gallon tank (couldn't resist) thinking of trying out a MH kit. 2 x 250 watt magnetic ballast from Sun Aquatics. Q: should i go for an electronic ballast instead? is it worth the savings on the electric bill? i heard of leaks with electric ones is this common? some inverts are sensitive to magnetic fields, am i paranoid?

many more Q still... this is enough for now.

[Diver_1298]

Originally Posted by vivas

am i paranoid?

Yes.
If you look at how efficient an electronic ballast is over a magnetic one. There will be a savings in the long run.
IMO there is nothing wrong with a magnetic ballast either. They are readily available and there are many 250 watt bulbs that put out a higher light value than if they were on an electronic ballast. It's all a matter of taste and how much money you want to spend. Enjoy,

Jim

[rickzter]

Originally Posted by vivas

i'm back on this forum with another question. recently bought an 80 gallon tank (couldn't resist) thinking of trying out a MH kit. 2 x 250 watt magnetic ballast from Sun Aquatics. Q: should i go for an electronic ballast instead? is it worth the savings on the electric bill? i heard of leaks with electric ones is this common? some inverts are sensitive to magnetic fields, am i paranoid?

many more Q still... this is enough for now.

I was told by a fellow reefer that electronic ballasts are not yet perfected and could malfunction in the long run. He said magnetics are way more heavy duty and that electronics are too "sensitive".

[vivas]

thank you guys for the quick replies, i thought i heard the same argument fo mag. ballasts. so it's def. confirmed. i'll go now and spend my money wisely.

[vivas]

oh oh i'm back again, i ran into TAR ballasts now, they are cheaper but i heard same deal with overheating and leaking. what you guys think 'bout them?