light investment ( LED or MH )

[pandagold]

Thinking of reinvesting on new light . choice of lights

1. LED ( 160watts LED equalivant to 250w MH ) ( comes moon and white LED + timer built in,,,, yummy ! )

OR

2. 1x 250w MH + 2x t5's

Currently using 3ft fixture 2x 150w mh + 2x t5 ( sucking electicity from light and chiller )

currently my tank mix of soft corals + mushroom and sps

Idea was to reduce electrical consumtion yet still provide enough light source for SPS growth .

Could I hear your thoughts of LED has is proven for coral ( SPS ) growth ? I mean grows as fast when under MH

[RockyBoy]

I used to have 2x250W MH + 6 x 39W T5 for my 3x3x2.5, mostly sps tank.

Monthly electric bills about $350 and above.

Now use 129x3W LED and electricity bills at $250-$270. Also I have reduced the tank temperature to 26-27.5degC from 27-29degC.

Growth of SPS is the same, colours are better. Same goes to the LPS and clam. However coraline algae growth is more drastic.

[pandagold]

could I know which LED light ( maker ) your using ? DIY'ed ?

[RockyBoy]

could I know which LED light ( maker ) your using ? DIY'ed ?

DIYed.

[Jameshong]

I used to have 2x250W MH + 6 x 39W T5 for my 3x3x2.5, mostly sps tank.

Monthly electric bills about $350 and above.

Now use 129x3W LED and electricity bills at $250-$270. Also I have reduced the tank temperature to 26-27.5degC from 27-29degC.

Growth of SPS is the same, colours are better. Same goes to the LPS and clam. However coraline algae growth is more drastic.

Totally agreed !

[pandagold]

Don't mind my asking, how much for your DIY ? Trying to see if it's cheaper to DIY against buying off the shelve .

Is it easy ? I'm only good with shocking myself when DIY'ing electronic stuff .

DIYed.

[Harlequinmania]

Don't mind my asking, how much for your DIY ? Trying to see if it's cheaper to DIY against buying off the shelve .

Is it easy ? I'm only good with shocking myself when DIY'ing electronic stuff .

With prices of LED lighting coming down so low now comparing to the past, you might want to consider the time / effort spending on a D.I.Y unit than a commerical ready made with warrenty coverage.

a Good LED bulbs is not cheap as well if you are getting from reputable source.