Upgrading Light to MH/PC combo...have some Q's

[Lepchitz]

I have been currently running a 65watt Satellite Single PC light on my 29gal reef tank for about a year now. Now that i have my reefkeeping skills harnessed, I have decided to upgrade my lighting so I can keep an assortment of acros and such. My tank mostly consists of "soft" corals right now, and I was wondering if I am going to fry them when I add my new light. The new light is a Aqualight Pro HQI 150watt 10k bulb, with 2 65 watt CP's. The second PC alone will double my wattage. When I replaced the bulb in my old light about 3 months ago, my xenia and a couple stalks of candycane coral scoarched a little. I have constructed a shelf of live rock for higher dwelling corals that are going to be added, should I shade my delicates underneath the shelf till they get used to it? Just looking for tips, thanks. B

By the way I love some of your alls' tank on this site, been browsing for about a month now and finally decided to register. I will be making a Thread for my tank and its progress soon.

Will

 

[saltank]

I don't have personal experience with an upgrade in lighting like that, however from me readings and research I think a slow acclimation to the new lighting would be prudent.

Perhaps a very short duration to begin with and gradually increase the lighting time as things look ok - I am sure you will get more input on this matter from this board.

But yes sounds like that type of upgrade could seriously impact the corals of not done carefully.

:wink:

 

[ChrisRD]

Hi Will and :welcome:

You'll definitely want to give your existing corals a chance to adapt to the stronger lighting. Personally, I prefer the window screen method (ie. put several layers of nylon window screening over the tank and remove a layer every few days - gradually lets more and more light through).

HTH

 

[Anonymous]

I would cut the time way back and add 15 minutes (or whatever your smallest time incrament is) every week until you get back up to the time you want to run. Considering the big jump in lighting you are making you may what to run the MH for a little as 2 hours a day to start (just a number I picked). You can continue to run the PC for the time you have been.

 

[Lepchitz]

I like the window screen method. Good news, light came in today. Man this thing is sweet. Also noticed a few new acros at the LFS today that I'm thinking about buying. Any one else have any info? Thanks for the help guys/gals.