is this lighting overkill?

[Hendersonracing]

Im getting new lighting soon....Ive been told yo get the 400 watt...Im planning on a full blow sps very soon...here are the specs...also I have a 210 aga

3 – PFO400 Ballast -

3 – Mogul Socket w/cord -
2 – PFO 36” Reflector -
3 – Hamilton 400w 10k Lamp - 1 – PFO 72” VHO Retrofit Kit -

2 – 72” URI Super Actinic VHO -
2 – PFO Moonlights -

[Geoff]

if you plan on running a DSB than that sounds about right. when i had a DSB i ran 400W over my 125g tank. the 125 is only 22" tall. so with the added height of the 210 you should be fine.

G~

[Hendersonracing]

ok good everyone tells me to get 250 but I dont want to have to upgrade later...

how about what I have selected? sound right? this is what a guy told me to get...

[Geoff]

250's would work. 400's will just be better at countering the nutrient levels produced by the sand bed. as long as you plan on always keeping a sand bed in the tank the 400's will prolly give you what you are looking for.

G~

[Hendersonracing]

Thanks Im planning on keeping sand....is pfo a good brand...the reflectors hold all the lights. should be a big improvement don't you think?

[Hendersonracing]

here are the reflectors I was thinking??



is there a better reflector

[Geoff]

with 400w bulbs painting the inside of the hood will be plenty. there have been experiments that have shown that a matt white paint is better at reflecting light than a polished aluminum reflector.

pretty much any polished aluminum reflector will be fine though.

i have not heard anything horrible about PFO. they seem to be a good company with good solid products.

G~

[Hendersonracing]

good thanks I ordered them today....can't wait should be a big difference huh?

now I need to sell mine..lol

[salt-rookie]

I have an SPS exclusive 180.....it is 72 X 24 X 24 with a 4" DSB.....I PERSONALLY think that 250watt MH is all you need. The big difference won't be in the initial cost, rather the monthly electric bill.....you know..the gift that KEEPS taking!