Hey guys I just ordered a Hamilton reef star 150 watt DE HQI. It has a magnetic ballast. I was just wondering if any of you had a general knowledge of how much this thing will cost me to run?
How big is your tank? I would have gone with a 175 minimum depending on your tank size. I use a 150 watt HQI on my 24 gallon Aqua-pod. I use two 175 watt mogul MHs on my 20-30 gallon frag tank.
It's 150W, right? If you run it for an hour, that's 150 watt-hours. How much is your electricity per watt-hour? Look at your electric bill to find out.
I still believe you should go with 175 watt bulbs. I also think for even spread you will need two. I think you will end up with a brighter section on whichever end or middle area of your tank you install it at. I just don't think the 150 is worth it as far as light penetration, especially on a 75 gallon tank (assuming its standard height). It will give a shimmer effect also that you more than likely don't have with t-5's. Glad to see your upgrading your lights though. It will allow you to keep different types of corals.
I think you will be much happier with that set up over the 150watt one. Also the electronic ballasts is much better over the magnetic.
