Double Ended or Single Ended Halides

[rhoffman291]

I'm shopping for Metal Halides and looking for some input. Any opinions on single versus double ended? From the research I've done so far, I see the double ended bulbs are more expensive.

This will be for a 92 gallon corner. Space is limited so I will be hanging pendants. Looks like double ended will save me some room in the canopy.

Any Pros or Cons for each?

[Frankie]

I don't have too much info on the doubles but i hear they burn cooler. Correct me if I'm wrong someone please.

[DaveK]

DE bulbs are usually a lot hotter than their SE counterparts.

Double ended do save some space, but they also require UV blocking, heat resistant glass. This can be extremely expensive. Also, because of the heat they put out, I do not recommend using DEs in any DIY projects that involve using wood as part of the fixture.

I'd say you can go either way, and there is not a specific advantage of one over the other. For most MH fixtures, SE or DE, I highly recommend the use of electronic ballasts. They run cooler, and the cost savings in electricity pay for the ballast in about 1 to 2 years.

[mps9506]

For space savings, the DE pendants will do very well. If you shop around most quality DE bulbs are not much more expensive than other quality SE bulbs. Most pendants come with the uv blocking glass, so you won't have to worry about it.

[cheeks69]

The DE bulbs will burn brighter and hotter because the HQI ballasts overdrive them which reduces the lifespan of these bulbs. If you use an EB this shouldn't be a problem. I like the SE bulbs because they're cheaper and there's a larger variety of bulbs.

[rhoffman291]

Thank you to everyone that responded. I'll be going with Pendants due to the shape of the tank (estimate I can hang at least two above a 92 gallon corner tank). I definitely prefer cooler and electronic ballast. Sounds like I'm leaning towards Single Ended.

Thanks again!