Metal Halide Question

[supra1997]

I own a 150w MH fixture (Sunpod 30") with Ballast and everything included. If I were to want to upgrade to the 250W, can I just swap out the Ballast and bulb and be ok?

 

[Lorna]

The 250W bulb is quite a bit bigger than a 150watt so as long as you have room, new ballast and socket you should be okay....

 

[BalaShark]

I am not sure if the fixture would be able to handle the heat of the 250W. If there is a similar Sunpod out there with a 250W, you can probably do it. Is it financially feasable or would it be cheaper to buy a new light kit? My 250W MH cost $65 for the bulb, $10 for the fitting, $99 for the ballast and $15 for the aluminum canopy.

 

[supra1997]

They make a 250W MH 30" just like mine. I believe it may be cheaper to just sell mine and add the additional to buy the 250w. I'm happy with my 150w, but just asking in case I ever upgrade and go bigger. Thanks

 

[S.Reef]

what size tank is the MH on?

 

[supra1997]

Its a 29gallon tank

 

[Lorna]

the 150w halide on that size tank is more than adequate......I don't think the extra $$ would be that necessary. Better to spend the extra on a quality skimmer or other equipment.

 

[S.Reef]

your not going to notice that much of a difference switching to a 250

 

[KahluaZzZ]

yeah 250 over a 29g is overkill

 

[supra1997]

I would only upgrade to the 250 if I was going bigger, like into a 55gallon or something. Thats way too much for a 29gal. I agree

 

[S.Reef]

on a 55 i would recommend two halide bulbs so you dont have overshadow

 

[supra1997]

Yeah 2 250's on each side would be what I would probably do.