Joining two 36" units for a 6' tank.

Well I was a little vague there. I wouldn't want a canopy because of having to take it off all the time to do stuff in the tank. They look nice though.

 

It would be 200 for all 8 36'' bulbs or 140 for the 4 72" bulbs. So it would take years to make the difference up. Def. food for thought though.

 

I built my canopy with doors on hinges in the front for everyday feeding and cleaning the glass, but I also built the top on a piano hinge so the entire top portion swings up and rests against the wall for bulb changes and if I ever have to get behind the rocks. Just an idea

 

Just another thought I originally built my canopy like this for longer flourescent bulbs but have since upgraded to MH. You could keep your current fixture for actinics and retro a MH if you go the canopy route. Saltycritter.com was very reasonable I got three 250w fixtures w/ reflectors, ballasts, and bulbs for under $500

 

Hmm, now you have me thinking about my fixture right in the middle and two MH pendants on either side.