Distance from lighting to tank

[LilNemo]

I have a question. I'm currently using a Coralife Lunar Aqualight Quad T5 HO Aquarium Light Fixture with my 30g tank. The height of the tank is 19". What is the largest distance the light can be from the tank? Reason I ask is it gets to be a total pain to remove it to do tank maintenance and such. Was thinking of doing a ceiling suspension to make it easier. Thanks!

 

[JSaquatics]

ceiling suspension is a good idea and I would do about 8 to 12 inches above the water.

 

[LilNemo]

Thanks for the response!

 

[kpiotrowski]

depends on what type corals and how much PAR they need. Ive seen nice shallow sps tanks with the lights just inches off the water to preserve par.

 

[Reefing Madness]

I agree, 19 is definitely a bit on the high side for a T5

 

[TriggerThis]

With only a 4 bulb fixture I would get it as close to the surface of the water as possible.
Trust me your corals will thank you.
I have a 6 bulb with all brand new ATI bulbs. It's 6" above my tank and I have zoas still stretching up that are 4 inches under the water.
Not to mention the ones that are 10 inches below that.
Trust me you will not have too much light if you have that thing right on the water.
I'm still lowering it slowly every week trying to get it as close as possible. My corals are loving all the light.