running no optics??

kth132 · Dec 8, 2013

well I just purchased a set of leds. They have 60 degree optics on them. My tank is only 24in deep. I have a lot of high rock work ( 90g corner tank) I don't want to bleach my corals and I don't want to mount my leds 2 ft above my tank either. I don't believe I can get optics for them anymore so I have considered removing the optics completely. Figured id get about a 120 degree spread if not a little more. I would be mounting them about 5in off the water. Whats your thoughts??

Ninjapotamus · Dec 8, 2013

No optics can be really good. You just need to get it closer to the water. I use a lot of the reefbreeder 179 no optics fixtures. They are better IMO than the ones with optics.

kth132 · Dec 8, 2013

Ninjapotamus said:
No optics can be really good. You just need to get it closer to the water. I use a lot of the reefbreeder 179 no optics fixtures. They are better IMO than the ones with optics.

Ya im afraid of bleaching coral using 60s I figured if I can get my lights within 6 inch of the water with no optics on a tank that's at the most 24in I should be ok..

mfinn · Dec 8, 2013

I'd be more concerned with acclimating your corals to the leds, rather than trying to alter them.
Start off with them at around 35% and over the course of 4-5 weeks ramp them up to 65% or so.
That will help keep from bleaching corals.

Eckolancer · Dec 8, 2013

I never use optics on any of the leds I built. My tank is 31" deep and growing sps on sandless bottom no problem. When first switching to leds corals will change colors some.

Eckolancer · Dec 8, 2013

Ih yeah acclimation period is totally up to you i never acclimated mine and they all do fine. My lights are right off the water as well. If anything Corals get more color up high never seen any bleaching. I think people without leds made this myth up.