Reef Sanctuary - View Single Post

DaveK · 03-07-2008, 05:51 PM

Well, it is possible to build this project, but it does have some downsides.

First, a 6500K MH bulb does give you a lot of PAR, but it's also a very yellow light. There is no way your tank is going to look like the picture in the article, unless you add a lot of actinic 03 light or use a 10000K to 15000K bulb.

Second, the project uses a coil and core ballast. I can't recommend these for several reasons. An electronic ballast will run cooler, weigh less, and use far less electricity. The last point is very important. You'll save more than the price difference between the coil and core ballast and an electronic ballast in the first year.

So while it's a possible way to go, if you are going to go the DIY route, use a much hight K bulb and an electronic ballast. Yes, this can almost double the cost of the project, but you'll be glad you did.

03-07-2008, 05:51 PM	#3 (permalink)
DaveK Neon dottyback Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: Philadelpahia, PA Posts: 653 View Gallery Karma Komment	Re: DIY MH 6500k,250w for $100 Well, it is possible to build this project, but it does have some downsides. First, a 6500K MH bulb does give you a lot of PAR, but it's also a very yellow light. There is no way your tank is going to look like the picture in the article, unless you add a lot of actinic 03 light or use a 10000K to 15000K bulb. Second, the project uses a coil and core ballast. I can't recommend these for several reasons. An electronic ballast will run cooler, weigh less, and use far less electricity. The last point is very important. You'll save more than the price difference between the coil and core ballast and an electronic ballast in the first year. So while it's a possible way to go, if you are going to go the DIY route, use a much hight K bulb and an electronic ballast. Yes, this can almost double the cost of the project, but you'll be glad you did.