Lighting suggestions for 250 DD

Bassett22 · Jul 9, 2015

I have 2 250watt metal halides, and 2 rapid led actinic kits on the front and back of the halides.

I like the setup and the spread and color of light, but Im looking for something a little cheaper on the power bill, and the halides are really close to the water due to my canopy being limited in height, and this causes a bit of spot lighting. Id like to switch to LEDs, I like the reef breeder fixtures, but they wont spread 36" width, Ive though about 2 ocean revive fixtures (new t 247) one over each half.

Anyone have other suggestions, unfortunately I cant afford 4 radions or anything like that.

FoD · Jul 9, 2015

You won't be saving any money on power bill. 4 Radions @70% would hit similar wattage you're using now. Seriously, savings of like 10¢ a day.

Bassett22 · Jul 10, 2015

FoD said:
You won't be saving any money on power bill. 4 Radions @70% would hit similar wattage you're using now. Seriously, savings of like 10¢ a day.

well the savings would occur instantly with out having to replace the bulbs, 160 bucks a year for new MH bulbs sucks. and I also said I don't want 4 radions, that 2 of the more cheaper fixtures would work. 2 of the reef breeder value fixtures claim they consume about 115 watts at full power. Im not sure what the difference ends up being on the power bill, but it will save heat, it will save evaporation, my water bill will go down some. My AC unit wont have to pull as much moisture out of the air. All these little things can add up pretty quick.

FoD · Jul 10, 2015

I'll document my bills over the next month since I added a 250DD with dual 250 halides, 8 T5's, and LED supplements. Water bill should go up slightly, and power a few dollars.

If you're not running your AC non-stop, or using a chiller, I don't think you'll see the savings you hope for. Bulb cost will be the most you'll see yearly, but cab be quickly offset by replacing the "budget" fixtures more often than the quality LED fixtures.