Need advice on a double end balast.

Reefael · Sep 22, 2009

I'm looking to setup my 48" long 65 gallon with a retro fit kit from hellolights and will consist of two 150w double end light fixtures. I ran into this ballast on eby and was wondering if anyone has had any experience with it. Thanks. http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=260479485651&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

Scooterman · Sep 22, 2009

Nope, but IMO I'd do two 250's instead, anyway. Not that this ballast will work or not, I bet it may have issues with certain types of lamps, hard to say with no experience on them. They are cheap & may work well, here's a bump for you.

Reefael · Sep 22, 2009

I contacted Hellolights and gave them my tank specs. They recommended two 150's. I'm also installing two t5's, one 10k and an actinic.

I guess electronic or magnetic would be another issue as well. Would there be a significant difference in energy cost?

Scooterman · Sep 23, 2009

Well usually electronic ballast are more efficient, quieter & produce less heat. Some say they won't produce as much power as tar ballast but that I don't think is a great difference.
I see nothing wrong with their recommendations but maybe if you ever decide to go sps in your tank or clams then you'd probably want more light.

ReefJunkie · Sep 23, 2009

The ballast you linked to on ebay is just that, a ballast. Does not come with a capacitor or ignitor. It is also an M81 which is a pulse start ballast. Pulse starts are good but have a limited supply of bulbs as probe start is the standard. Just my 2 cents. Good luck.

Regards,