Lighting a 20" Cube

[Anonymous]

I'm about to pick up an Oceanic 30g Cube (20X18X20). What is the best way to light this tank for a reef? I know I can put a couple of 20" Aqualights on it (1x96w). Any other suggestions?

 

[Anonymous]

I would do a single 250W HQI MH pendant over it.

 

[Anonymous]

I had considered that, but if I go with a Pendant I'm going to want to build a canopy, and I'm not sure how much heat would be an issue in that size tank.

 

[Anonymous]

I went with one of these over my cube: http://www.marinedepot.com/md_viewItem.asp?idproduct=CU01040

FWIW, I'm really pleased with it.

 

[Dewman]

I have the same aquarium I am currently building.

I hooked this fixture up the other day and I had no problems with heat.
If the excess light is a problem, just build a canopy shell without a top.

 

[Dewman]

Woops... here it is..
https://www82.safesecureweb.com/web...n=PROD&Product_Code=CL53601&Category_Code=CAA

 

[ChrisRD]

Personally, I think I'd do a single 175 watter in a mini LA3 for a canopy setup or a single 150 watt DE pendent for an open top setup.
If it was going to be all high light critters I'd probably go with a 250 watt lamp (either scenario).

Just my $0.02 :wink:

 

[SnowManSnow]

I have a 24 x 24 x 24 and put a 400w hamilton reefstar pendant over it for $400. Can't beat it.

I got it from www.exoticfish.com

B

 

[Anonymous]

Did you hang it over an open tank? My wife is an interior designer so I have to avoid the Mc Guyver look. :lol:

 

[Anonymous]

Rover, I think I'm going to have two spare Luminarc mini DE pendants. if you're looking to buy one I'll give you a good deal on it.

B

 

[SnowManSnow]

yea hung over the open tank

but i built a 3 sided open top hood to just fit around 3 sides.. back and top are open. looks nice

 

[Anonymous]

Rover, I think I'm going to have two spare Luminarc mini DE pendants. if you're looking to buy one I'll give you a good deal on it.

B

Cool! I'll send you a PM when I buy the tank. We have a kid on the way in November so I'm trying to get it all done while I still have money. :lol:

 

[Unarce]

A 150W SunPod would be perfect. Current USA has a 20" version.