Biocube HQI

I am currently planning a Biocube HQI reef tank and after doing some research I've noticed plenty of people talking about 'stock' items on there tank. I've come to the conclusion that they are referring to what it comes with but what I'm curious about is what I should plan on replacing on my new tank once it comes in at my LFS?

I've also read that the stock lights burn out after a couple weeks and that the lights were yellow to begin with. How do I know which replacement bulbs would work best for my specific metal halide fixture?

Thanks for all the help, I know I can count on the 3reefers.

 

Replacement bulbs will be determined by wattage, in your case a 150w double ended metal halide bulb. From there you can select from various spectrums of lighting, for example 10k bulbs look more white, while 20k bulbs have a bluer look but produce better coral growth. It comes down to personal preference and what you are looking for. Stock equipment does refer to the equipment that comes with the tank, and several people have messed with their lighting on these cubes. Another common swap is the return pump, I just swapped out my stock biocube pump for a maxi jet 1200, and the results were pretty noticeable! There are tons of after market parts fro various companies that you can find too. Hope this helps!

 

You're correct stock is what equipment comes with the tank from the retailer.

I encourage you to change out the MH bulb for higher quality bulb. Phoenix 14k is my favorite, next I like the Radium 20k and lastly a Ushio.

Now everyone is going to tell you to go LED lol.

 

I have had the 29 HQI for 2 years now and the only problem i have had was the front right corner had a pin sized hole in the caulking that would act like a wick and slowly drain the water out just enough to cause the return pump to blow bubbles back into the tank. i called oceanic and they sent me a tube of caulking free of charge. it was a quick and easy fix. I replaced the skimmer with a hang on because the one that came with mine did not work well. i also replaced the bulb with a 14k phoenix 14k. my corals and I both love them.

 

Any specific reason to go LED? I've heard nothing but good things (aside from the stock bulb burning out) on the metal halides with Biocubes.

Glad I kept two maxi-jet 1200 from my previous tank. I definitely appreciate all the help.

 

The the biggest reason is heat, the second is power.

Do not get me wrong, I love MH and use it on a nano, but heat can become an issue and extra fans or addition of a chiller is sometimes warranted.

Definitely try the MH with a higher quality bulb since you have it, I am sure you will like the look.

 

A lot of people like to use the LED's on bigger tanks due to bulb costs and heat issues, but on the biocube they arent as big of an issue, mostly because there is only one bulb! I would stick with the MH system for a while, I think you will like the results.

 

not just bigger tanks, led's also offer a great alternative to MH's on nanos as they dont heat up the tank at all. and IMO the colors just look awesome compared to anything else.

 

I have the BC HQI 29 too. I use the Phoenix 14k and love it, it has a lot of blue in it. I replaced the pump with a MJ 1200, and got the media basket from INtank. Other than that it runs great. Does heat up a little in the summer so I run the AC, but if you take the back covers off it does help keep it cool. Also invest in a good ATO, on the small tanks they are a life saver.

 

Any good suggestions on an ATO?