Best LED for refugium

mpjmeyer · Oct 21, 2015

Ok as we all know, the internet is BLASTED with a ton of information on anything saltwater related which eventually will give me a stirring headache. However I'm sure I'm putting way too much thought into this but want to make sure I make the right decision the first time. I purchased the clf1 sump system with 13 gallon refugium from lifereef.com which should be here anyday and I'm looking for the lighting for the sump now. I've narrowed it down to 2 lights, each from wave point.

http://www.wave-point.com/Lighting_folder/Blade HO LED light.html
(the 01416 which is 9" and 6500K)

http://www.wave-point.com/Lighting_folder/LEDHOClampLight.html
(the 01123 which is 12" and 6500K)

My reasoning between these 2 lights is because they are both led's and 6500K which, after reading and reading, discovered this was most ideal for raising and growing in the refugium. Which do you guys prefer over the other? Or do I need to stop thinking about it and just buy one because they are basically the same dang thing? Them not having an on/off switch is not a big deal since it will be plugged into a timer anyway.

Salty1962 · Oct 22, 2015

I'm using a Kessil 160WE. I like being able to change from 6500 to 9000 in case I want to put some frags in my sump.

ReefLEDLights · Oct 29, 2015

I would go with something stronger.

Shallow Marine Macro Algae like cheato or turf do well with a little extra 620-670nm or Red.

I've had great results using this combo.
2 Cree XT-E Cool White
2 Cree XT-E Warm White
2 Cree XT-E Royal Blue
2 Cree XP-E2 Blue
1 Cree XP-E2 Photo Red
1 Cree XP-E2 Green.

You also need the intensity. The more the better as the algae especially cheato shades itself. The above mix driven between 700 and 1000mA with 80 dregree reflectors is perfect for a 10gal refuge.

Bill