filtering a nano-reef

[Lobo.]

For my 10g nano tank two HOB filters, one with live gravel inside and one with regular filter media, worked fine. I performed 50% water changes per week during the cycle (or more if ammonia/nitrites spiked) and then reverted to 30% changes afterwards.

For lighting I used 120 watts of power compact fluorescent lighting at around 6700K. this was enough for softies

hope this helps some... good luck and post pictures!

 

[Cory Keeper]

Hmm, I disagree Ace, by far. Go over to nanoreef.com and see the vast amount of LED builds. But MH isn't "better" than LEDs in all situations. My situation, most deff not. LED makes a far far better option because I can get 25 degree optics with like 30 LEDs for under $150, plus HS, that has a useful life of about 20 years. MH OTOH, $250 minimum start up costs, lots of heat, wild temp swings and $100 bulbs every 8-10 months, plus a ton of extra power consumption, all for a little extra PAR, if that. I fail to see how MH is "better.

 

[Ace25]

First, show me the PAR of your LED light, then I will show you the PAR of a 150w Viper light, we will see which light is better. When we are talking about a Reef tank, PAR is really the only arguement when talking about lighting. All other factors like spectrum is more to please our eyes and is highly subjectable.

I am pretty sure the heat is minimal on clamp on MH lights, especially with a simple fan added to blow across the water.

Also, if you research MH bulbs, you will see you either replace them at 6 months, or wait until 18-24 months, because the biggest drop off in output happens in the first 6 months, after that, it is only about a 5% loss in output between month 6-24. On a 10G tank I am sure you could run a 150w for close to 2 years without really seeing any negative effect.

 

[Cory Keeper]

Yes, and I have seen the PAR numbers on MH vs custom LED without optics, LED blew a 150w MH light out of the water, no contest.

I have just run some figures, even if I were to replace the bulb every two years, after 20 years of operation, I'm looking at close to $1,700 spent, $1,500 in new bulbs. Total cost of the LEDs over a 20 year is still +/- $200

Again, MH does not mean better, LEDs can run with alot of MH setups easily, if done right.

 

[Amphiprion]

Unless it is enclosed without any air circulation, heat via lighting is overhyped, anyway. What many don't realize is that most of the heat accrued in a tank is likely from the various internal equipment, including the more inefficient powerhead. Because of this, I don't really consider it much of an argument. What matters to me is usable intensity--I'll go with whatever can satisfy that for my application, be it halides, T5s, or LED arrays.