VHO light config

[zryder]

Ok.. So I was starting to think today... I have an Icecap 660 running my 2 6' actinic lights in my main tank... and below that, in my stand, is my 55g sump/fuge. Previously, I had added a 4' 12k bulb to add to my previous setup, that is now sitting unused. Is there any reason I couldnt run wires from my IC660 down to my sump to run that 4' bulb overtop my fuge? I know the 660 will drive all 3, it did it before, and that adds up to the maximum 16' of tubes.... the wiring length would be 8-10', give or take..
would surely provide more growing power for my stuff down there than the current 2' normal output flourescent I have over it now..

[dirk griffin]

NO! although some have done a 3 bulb configuration and it has worked. The 660 is designed for 2-6' only. Having a 3rd bulb added to it, is stressing it somehow. This is why that diagram is not in their set directions. Many of the ice cap returns are due to them burning out on this configuration.

[zryder]

having the lower one being 4'? I had that running over top my tank for months.. no problem.. was I just lucky?

[dirk griffin]

A 3 bulb diagram with 2 of the bulbs 6' is not in Ice caps list of possible bulb set ups. This is for a reason.....

[David Grigor]

I would post the question or do a search in the Icecap forum over on RC and see what the experts say about risk before doing anything.

I ran 2X6' + 1X4' bulb on a 660 for about 6-8 months with no issues. However, like Dirk mentions can lead to premature failure of the ballast. If you try it, absolutely must to use the heat sink and keep the ballast in a well ventalated area.

[zryder]

I had it running before also, with no issues.. mabee thats because it is on its heatsink, and sitting in the most ventilated area of my tank...

[David Grigor]

Also, premature failure can also be in years. Could mean the difference between lasting 10years vs. only 6 years etc. So relative short term uses you may never realized or see the difference.

Double check on the icecap forum and just be sure you fully understand the risk before doing.

[FastFish720]

I think I read something in the RC IC forum about not doing a third bulb on a 6' setup.