Metal Halide COverage

[pikkastang]

I have a 29 gallong reef tank, (30 inches wide)i have decided to upgrade my lights finally to a 175 watt halided 12 k bulb. I mainly have SPS. Well my questions is will one halide be enough to cover the tank, i heard the coverage of a halide is basically a 2 x 2 spread. I really dont want to spend the money for 2 lights, plus the power bill increase. Can I get away with using one light or will it look weird with only the middle of the tank having the streaking light effect. I have a 55 watt power compact that will compliment the halide.

 

[toptank]

I think one would be fine on your tank

 

[THillson]

You'll get the best coverage if you use a quality reflector and mount the bulb perpendicular to the front of the tank. You may have to raise the hood a bit to get complete coverage left to right. Have you looked into the 150W HQI? From PFO they come complete with a housing/reflector and UV glass. Really a nice light with good color, read no actinic needed. You could do away with the PC if you wanted, although a dawn/dusk effects are nice.