Wow I didn’t know HOB refugiums were so inexpensive, I might get one. I feel like less light hours won’t help take care of the nitrates though. It’ll just suppress the algae growth while keeping all the excess nutrients.have you thought about a hang on refugium
I would look at other method of control if cannot have a refugium. Lower light hours and more water changes and less food going in the tank. maybe consider a skimmer upgrade if its not cutting it. There are more then one way to skin a cat.