here's another lighting question for you guys

[jhrivera]

Hey guys...sorry if I keep asking a lot of questions. I'm just trying to do everything right the first time out. My questions are about lighting. I was planning on getting a 2x96W Power Compact Retrofit Kit for my tank. It's for a 50 gallon (36"X15"X20") FOWLR tank. I'm also going to have live sand in there as well. Is it better to get a lighting fixture to span the entire length of my tank, which is 36", or could I get a shorter light fixture like a 24"? Also, do I need a fan for 2x96W Power Compacts or can I get by without one? Which manufacturer makes better Power Compacts? I was thinking of going with Custom Sea Life, JBJ Lighting, or Hamilton Lighting, but HelloLights.com has pretty good deals on lights.

Thanks everyone!

[Boogiechillin]

To answer your last question first, there isn't a whole lot of difference between PC units made by the manufacturers that you listed. Go for the best price.

You may need a fan - this varies based on the heat of the lights, ambient temp in the room, circulation, etc etc. Watch the temperature for the first couple days, and invest in some computer muffin fans and a power supply to run them if necessary. You can get this whole works for $10-15 off Ebay.

I would recommend that you try to equally illuminate the entire length of the tank rather than having the edges dimmer. Using a shorter light will limit your placement of light-needy corals to the center, and in a 36" tank, that doesn't leave a whole lot of room. This is especially a problem if you're looking for LPS or other aggressive corals that all need "elbow space" to keep from stinging each other to death. Illuminating the full length will let you spread out corals more and give you more placement options.

Which segues into the real important question, what do you want to keep??

[dcallen]

Hi,

I agree I would go with a 36" power compact for even light distribution. I just saw a power compact the other day, (sorry I can't remember the brand name) but it had 2 built-in fans which makes it a very nice option. I think it was around $159.00. If I switch lighting I think I'll go with one of those myself. Good luck with your tank.