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AtlantaMFR · 05-08-2008, 03:22 PM

I am trying to do a low tech 75 gallon BUDGET tank. I want to see how cheap I can make something super nice.

I got a tank, stand, canopy and canister filter for $200 on ebay. I sanded and repainted the stand and canopy and it looks great!

I am have pool sand and peat as a substrate and I plan on dosing with ferts.

So my lighting question is this:

I want to be around 1.5 wpg. Are there any disadvantages to using 2 shop light fixtures with custom mylar reflectors along with bulbs that have reflectors built in? I know that puts me at 2 wpg, but i figured with the lower quality I will lose some and it will put me closer to the quality of 1.5wpg

so, is there anything wrong with this? I got the shop lights at home dept for $9, mounting brackets for inside of the hood were $3 I think.

Bulbs will be about $15-20

Is there going to be a heat issue? Rust issues? I have a full glass top as well.

Thanks!

05-08-2008, 03:22 PM	#1 (permalink)
AtlantaMFR Planted Member (View User Tanks) PTrader: (4) Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Smyrna, GA Posts: 273	DIY Lighting Opinion I am trying to do a low tech 75 gallon BUDGET tank. I want to see how cheap I can make something super nice. I got a tank, stand, canopy and canister filter for $200 on ebay. I sanded and repainted the stand and canopy and it looks great! I am have pool sand and peat as a substrate and I plan on dosing with ferts. So my lighting question is this: I want to be around 1.5 wpg. Are there any disadvantages to using 2 shop light fixtures with custom mylar reflectors along with bulbs that have reflectors built in? I know that puts me at 2 wpg, but i figured with the lower quality I will lose some and it will put me closer to the quality of 1.5wpg so, is there anything wrong with this? I got the shop lights at home dept for $9, mounting brackets for inside of the hood were $3 I think. Bulbs will be about $15-20 Is there going to be a heat issue? Rust issues? I have a full glass top as well. Thanks!