VHO lights. How long do they last?

[reef75]

I have a 4 110 watt VHO kit and was wondering how often must I change the blubs. I am also thinking to go with a metal halide kit and was wondering if I should go with 2 150 watt kit or 2 200 watt kit and I want to add 2 VHO lights with the kit.


Reef75

[scubadude]

Hi reef75

Im gonna move your thread over to the "lighting forum" this will probably get more attention to your needs over there. As far as how long a VHO bulb will last I would say to change it anywhere from 6mos - 1yr. depending on the bulbs and recommended life expectancy and their appearance. I personally like the URI bulbs and would atleast leave them on for 8mos on my tank before changing them. I also would stagger the bulb changes...so I wouldnt have to replace them all at once. This helps the wallet, and the acclimation of your lighting intensity changes to your corals. As far as 150w vs 250w (im guessing you meant 250w NOT 200w) I think this would depend on how deep your tank is and what type of corals you are planning to keep. Say your tank was 24" deep and you wanted SPS and clams...then I would go with the 250w. but if you wanted LPS, softies and maybe a few select SPS then I might opt for the 150w. Research it out....you have other decisions to make too....Like the coloration aka kelvin rating of the bulbs....lots to decide here....Give a hollah to Charlie he is the lighting guru here on our board.

[charlie]

Rocky has given you some excellent advice, and he is right on with his times on the vho bulbs. I usually try to change mine before they hit 9 months. The theory of staggering the changes is good advice also. 1 bulb is only ~25 bucks, but when you are changing 6 at a time, that is when it gets costly.