Power Compact bulbs

EZMAC114 · Aug 29, 2014

I know PC bulbs are out dated but it's what I have to use for now on my 180. I am setting up a FOWLR and want to know what bulbs would be best. I was told to just go with 2 50/50 bulbs...the ones I need are 96 watt square pin. And if anyone is still running these I'd like to see pictures of your tank and the lighting. Please and thank you

prsnlty · Aug 29, 2014

I have 2 24" 65w combined with 2 AI sol blue LEDs and 2 T5s on my 125g. So it wont be an accurate picture. I do like them but don't feel they have enough par for deeper water. Especially for a 180. Since I'm upgrading to a 180 this weekend my PCs won't be going over it. I'm simply adding 2 more T5s with the AIs. How many are you running and no, I don't think only 50/50 are enough. I would add some 460mn (deep blues)

EZMAC114 · Aug 29, 2014

Well I do have 1 250 watt MH but I wasn't going to hook it up since I didn't think I would need it.

prsnlty · Aug 29, 2014

Are the 96w pcs 60"? How many do you have?

EZMAC114 · Aug 29, 2014

I think they are 34"...I what I need to hook up 2 but I just haven't bought bulbs yet

prsnlty · Aug 29, 2014

Sorry, but that is nowhere near enough light for corals unless it's all softies and then it will be barely enough. A 180 is 24" deep not counting the light to surface distance. The bulbs run about $40 each with shipping at AquaCave (who is pretty much the only ones that are still carrying them) for $135 you can set up a 2 bulb retro T5 and get more lighting and depth penitration. Reefgeek has the ati ballast, bulbs, reflectors and sockets. Then as you have more $ add a set of 2 at a time

prsnlty · Aug 29, 2014

Just notice you said fish only. You can get away with them for now but you will find yourself wanting some easy care (at least) corals soon enough. Lol

EZMAC114 · Aug 29, 2014

Hmm...ok I'll look into that. Thanks!

prsnlty · Aug 29, 2014

You're welcome :) ReefGeek has gone surfing (really) You can check their site in about a week. These are TERRIFIC people to buy from. Very helpful. You even get free candy and stuff with your order lol.Their prices are great and so are their products when it comes to lighting & have good sales too.

Good luck!

bboyvital · Aug 29, 2014

reef geek is awesome but unfortunatley they are closing shop. for fish only those two bulbs should do just fine. might be a little dim for a 180 but all depends on your taste.

for the price of the 2 bulbs you could probably get a 48-60 inch mareinland single bright led for fish only. only runs at like 12watts.

mrred · Aug 29, 2014

Dr foster and smith also carry pc's. I have 2 96 watt on my 90 and a led strip. I will send you a picture as soon as I can

EZMAC114 · Aug 29, 2014

mrred said:
Dr foster and smith also carry pc's. I have 2 96 watt on my 90 and a led strip. I will send you a picture as soon as I can

Ok thanks

EZMAC114 · Aug 29, 2014

Would it be better for me to put two of these on my tank. I know they aren't 72" but I figured 2 48" led might be better.

http://m.ebay.com/itm/360911611241

tyler1503 · Aug 30, 2014

I have a single 50/50 9W PC on my 5gal. It works really well an I get good growth but I want to move to LEDs soon simply because of bulb replacement costs. I don't have a recent FTS but hopefully you'll get an idea of the colour from these pics.
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EZMAC114 · Sep 2, 2014

Anyone have an opinion on this t5 setup?

http://m.homedepot.com/p/ViaVolt-4-...Fluorescent-Grow-Light-Fixture-V44/203012866/

mainereefer · Sep 2, 2014

EZMAC114 said:
Anyone have an opinion on this t5 setup?

ViaVolt, 4 ft. 4-Bulb T5 High Output Copper Fluorescent Grow Light Fixture, V44 at The Home Depot - Mobile

my opinion is its to expensive especially after replacing the bulbs.... you can pick up a used 6' t5 for about the same price