is this too much lighting?

[!v@n]

So I have 2 400w MH's and was thinking about getting two lumenbright mini reflectors for them. My question is will this be enough lighting for my tank? The dimensions are 60" x 24". I have been told I should use 3 lights for this length tank. I have access to another 400w MH. Would this be too much lighting or should I keep just the two with actinics. This is the first time I put MH's on and I dont know a whole lot about this stuff. I would like to get more into sps and want nice growth and colors.

[Nick_Kun]

yeah, you would need 3. I have a 60" and two lumenbrights are pushing it.

[!v@n]

Ok, will 3 400w MH's be overkill? unfortunately my tank is a flat back hex and I can fit three lumenbright mini's under it just two. Or I could do 3 standard shaped reflecors

[Nick_Kun]

3 lumenbright minis would be best. 400 watters woudl definately be overkill depening on that ballast and blub combo.

[DaveMorris]

I have four over my 96" tank and it is pretty even. The two in the middle are 400w and the two outsides are 250w. All four are in Lumenarc minis. You will need three reflectors unless the two are up very high. I don't think 400w is too much. I get great growth with mine.

[!v@n]

I was originally planning on putting just the two reflectors in an 18" tall canopy. would this be ok or would I still need three? The canopy is being planned as we speak so now would be the time to make it taller.

oops my bad, just measured my tank its 60" long

[Nick_Kun]

with lumenbrights, the bottom of the reflector needs to be an average of 12-14" for maxium spread.

[vinny73]

Good Planning Ivan! I'm only making this canopy 1 time!!!!!jk I think the 2 would be good but we would definately need to play with their location so the light covers evenly

[!v@n]

yeah i just measured and if we build it 22" tall that would put the reflectors about 13" above the water. should give us good light spread. i think all we need to do is build new walls for my existing canopy with doors in the front and use the original top as a lid to access the lights when i need to change them. the doors can be used for day to day feedings and stuff. I figure if we plan it right you only have to build it once, don't wanna make you work too much bro. lol