Switching Over to MH [Update]

Last month I got a Galaxy ballast. I LOVE it. I plan on getting another to replace one of my other ballasts. Much brighter and crisper colors.

You will not be disappointed.

 

I am using 2 lumen max 3 pendants with lumatec ballasts which I believe are real similar to the galaxy ballast they are both made by sls. The pendants do not look bad, a bit industrial looking but not bad in person. The reflectors are great. I think you will be happy with this setup.

 

Thanks for the description, I was a little worried about that.

 

Well, I pulled the trigger and bought my new lighting system. I got 2 SLS LumenMax 3 pendants, 2 Galaxy Select-a-watt ballasts, 2 150w 14K Phoenix Bulbs and 2 hanging kits. Once I get the equipment, I'll set it up and begin documenting any changes, if any, I see and other pro/cons of the eternal question of T5 vs. metal halide.

 

i wil say on a tall tank the 150 hqi dnt have alot of punch to penetrate a tall water column. if you want punch id say 250s.

 

I don't know about t5 to mh, but I just switched from led to mh and am already seeing more growth and color in 2 weeks time than I saw in months under LEDs. In all I think you and your reef will be very happy with your choice.
On a side note my tank temp is not hard to control with the mh. It ranges from 79 at night no lights to 79.5 lights on with house temp of 76. Running 4 canopy fans and 1 fan on the sump.

 

That's what I've heard too, but right now, I'm about 18" to the sand bed and only have lower light corals down there anyways. I don't plan on upgrading to a deeper tank anytime soon, but may be planning a slightly small tank which is why I wanted pendants, which are much more flexible as far as tank dimensions go.

 

Just confirming that you're aware DE 150W and 250W have different form factors, so even though the pendants you're about to purchase are compatible with both--unless they come with conversion kits (different socket ends and means to fasten), it might be pretty costly to move from 150 to 250 if and when the time comes.

 

Yes, I am aware of that. But the equipment I bought will make it easier to move from 150w to 250w then other choices. At least I won't have to worry about the ballasts.

 

Glad to hear. So many mistakes are avoidable, yet so easy to miss.