Upgrade to a MH system. Anything I should watch out?

[zy]

I am going to upgrade the current lightling (200 Watt, Power Compact) to Metal Halide system (442W Metal Halide System with Power Compact).

With the lighting intensity increased significantly, is there anything I should watch out during the transition period to avoid any negative impact on the livetocks in the tank? Will some of the corals not get used to the sudden change of the environment? Any tips and suggestions are appreciated.

[wharyat]

Welcome to TRT!!


For acclimating your corals, you want to either drop down your light period significantly and increase it by 15 minutes every 1 or 2 days until you are at your preferred photo-period.

Another option is to cover the tank with eggcrate and multiple layers of window screen. Set your photo-period and remove a layer of screen every couple of days.

It's all about slowly upping the intensity while making sure your corals are doing fine with it.

[Loverotties]

+1

[Hop]

As mentioned, go slow with the acclimation. You may find an imbalance between light and nutrients initially and you'll need to be prepared for that potential aspect

[zy]

Thanks very much for all the advices. I guess it is all about proceeding in a gradual manner.

[quick_murdoc]

Going along with what everyone said you may have problems with heat. If you dont have one already you might want to invest in a small fan unless you're using a chiller. I think most people use fans these days though as they are more cost effective.

[zy]

The metal halide system has a built-in fan. Do you mean install an additional fan somewhere?

[Loverotties]

You mite need more then the one that it comes with.

[wharyat]

What are the details of your setup? Tank size? Sump?

If you notice a temp increase, which you probably will, you can throw in a fan blowing across the tank or the sump. This method can actually knock a good 5 degrees off your water temp.