View Full Version : I want to increase my lighting. where do I start
eve_1_4_80
06-26-2003, 5:28 PM
I have a 55 gallon freshwater tank with 70 watts of light total. I am looking to increase my wattage but I dont know where to start. Any Ideas
For Compact lighting try here: http://www.ahsupply.com/
Aquarium Hobbyist is one of the best respected companies around.
Len
Tempest
06-26-2003, 7:39 PM
I use two cheapo Home Depot shoplights above my 55 gallon. Works fine but would probably be improved with better reflectors.
NJ Devils Fan
06-26-2003, 8:27 PM
I also have two cheap Home Depot shot lights over my 72g and they work great. In fact, the bulbs were more than the actualy fixtures.
eve_1_4_80
06-30-2003, 1:43 PM
does the shop light provide 2 watts per gallon
NJ Devils Fan
06-30-2003, 2:59 PM
For what size tank? each bulb is 40 watts, and there are 2 bulbs for each light.
125gJoe
06-30-2003, 6:04 PM
I went with Power Compacts from Custom SeaLife, Inc. (http://www.customsealife.com/l_powercompact.htm) Some day I'd at least want to 'borrow' a Metal Halide or 2 and see what that looks like! :)
superjohnny
06-30-2003, 8:30 PM
I have a 96w PCF Custom Sealife above my 45g tank and it's a beautiful light... no doubts about it. The only issue I have with it is that it's not upgradable. I could really use another 55w PCF up there, but to do it I'd have to redo my hood. (cursed 24" deep tank :mad: )
a 2x 55w PCF's kit from ahsupply above your 55 would be really nice.
plantbrain
06-30-2003, 10:47 PM
You can barely squeeze 4x 40 watt of shop light on there.
But you really should use CO2 before adding more light if plant health is the reason for adding something to your tank.
Even at 70-80 watt on a 55 gal tank, there is very enhanced growth from most every plant species.
This was the tank size I started with when fidding with CO2 and lighting.
More light will mean more tending and experience with CO2 nutrients etc.
Regards,
Tom Barr