hood plans

[markak15]

I just picked up a 220W VHO ballast. I'm planning on building a hood out of wood and enclosing it with some kind of plexiglass. I also plan on picking up most of my parts like power cord, endcaps, fans (necessary for VHO?) at the hardware store or radioshack instead of paying a lot more at the LFS. Is it important I get "moisture resistant" endcaps? Anyone have any better ideas for building material other than wood? any ideas would be appreciated...never done this before. thanks

mark

[macronut]

Yes, it is important that you purchase moisture resistant endcaps, as saltwater can bee very harsh on the equipment. You don't want a fire or electrical shock.

[motorslave]

Check out www.hellolights.com for good prices on lighting stuff. My canopy is wood with the inside being melamine. make sure the wood is sealed well. Fans are always a good thing as they will help keep the heat down inside the hood. Any lights can add heat.

Robert

[wharyat]

Welcome to TRT Macronut!

Yes waterproof endcaps are necessary. www.hellolights.com and www.reeftanklighting.com are great sites for lighting. For fans check out the internet and local computer shops for PC fans, much cheaper.