How many watts is to much??

aridious1 · Dec 8, 2013

I currently have a 150 gal tank (72L x 18W x 24H) and right now I have a MTL/ compact combo (3 x 175 watt& 4 x 96 watt). However, I am not getting the growth that I want in my tank. I think that after reading a lot of your threads out there that my lighting is not strong enough for my tank. I want to upgrade to a more powerful light system, but don't want to buy a system that is to powerful where it will cause damage to my livestock. I have looked at a 3 x 250 watt combo and a 3 x 400 watt combo system and would like to know which one would be the best system for my tank. I plan on adding some Acropora after purchasing a new system. Right now I currently have LPS corals, Zoes, Mushrooms and reef safe fish.

trido · Dec 8, 2013

If you insist on MH, then 3x250 would be best.

Vwtbug · Dec 8, 2013

I so great with t5 n led

aridious1 · Dec 8, 2013

Thanks Trido!!!!!!!

mike007 · Dec 9, 2013

I would look at leds. Most manufacters will help you determine what you need for that sixe tank.

Reefing Madness · Dec 9, 2013

If your going to add Acros and higher light needing critters, then I'd drop in the 400w Halides. There would be no doubt you'd be able to keep anything you wanted.

aridious1 · Dec 9, 2013

400w won't be to bright where critters wont bleach or get to much light???

aridious1 · Dec 9, 2013

How do I go about getting my tank use to the higher wattage light system??

Reefing Madness · Dec 9, 2013

Get your lighting on to 4 hours a day for a week, then every week add an hour to the tank until your get it back to where you had it.

aridious1 · Dec 9, 2013

Thank you so much "Reefing Madness" for all you great advice!!!!!!!!!!!:peace:

ronnie · Dec 9, 2013

400w and a 24" deep tank.

That's a bit overkill, IMO.

My 120g grew sticks just fine with 250w. You'll likely have some heat issues with the 400w unless you put a large chiller on the system or actively cool it a lot.