Optimal Orientation of MH Bulbs?

[GMGQ]

Yes mine are the Optimal type. Thanks so much for this info! Definitely the way to go then.

Originally Posted by Samw

Assuming you have the PFO Optimal reflectors mentioned by Joe Reefer and will mount them at 6", I vote for perpendicular. If you have the parallel reflectors, then I would change my vote to parallel.

[TheReefGeek]

GMGQ, where abouts did you buy the Optimal reflectors?

[GMGQ]

When I was building my stand and hood, I actually found a pre-made hood w/ the new reflectors and new Icecap MH ballasts on ebay from the states.

That hood was to be hung from the ceiling, so it wasnt applicable to my setup. But it was cheaper for me to buy that hood and take the parts from it, than buy the (2) reflectors and (2) IC250 ballasts locally.

Originally Posted by TheReefGeek

GMGQ, where abouts did you buy the Optimal reflectors?

[TheReefGeek]

Gotcha. What are the dimensions of the reflectors?

[TheReefGeek]

Are they these?

http://www.aquariumsupplycompany.com...76/2761741.htm

[GMGQ]

Yeah those look like the ones. Mine are 12" long.

Originally Posted by TheReefGeek

Are they these?

http://www.aquariumsupplycompany.com...76/2761741.htm

[StirCrazy]

In a 48" tank with two bulbs you should mount then front to back to get the maximum light distrubution. also you should shift the base of the bulbs as far back as you can as more light is thrown forward from the bulb than back wards.

a different case would be in a tank like mine where it is only 3 feet long and two foot wide I have them mounted like you do in that case as there is only 1 foot between the tips of the bulbs.

Steve