Pc's or t-5

I am new to the forum but have been reading quite a bit. I am setting up a 55 gallon reef (future hard and soft corals). Have a couple of questions if someone could help. I didn't research a whole lot but was advised to buy pc's I have two 36" 96watt 50/50 combined with a 175 watt metal halide off center of the tank. (it's in a retro kit reflector) I was wondering should I change the pc's to t-5's or stick with what I have. Also the tank I have is a all glass aquarium with the built in overflow. My other question is should i have power/heads for flow. The tank now has two flexible discharges for flow. I appreciate the help.

55 gallon
70 gallon wet/dry
quiet one 3000
clear aquatic protein skimmer
2 pc's 36" 96watts
175 watt metal halide

 

I would go with T-5 all the way, some people think flow is more important then light not sure what I think but I can tell you in the two years I have been reefing my tank really took off when I added some flow

 

T5's are better than PC's in every possible way. Whether you actually NEED to, I would say no, you have excellent lighting for a 55 gallon tank. But T5's will give you much lower operating costs, as the bulbs last twice as long, the bulbs are cheaper, and they use less energy.
And yes, you will need to add flow. I am assuming that when you say nozzles that is just your return? If you want hard corals, I would add a trio of koralia 2's. That would be a good start.

 

You already have MH in there. The other is just supplimental lighting. I would change out only if you don't find a color you like, or the ballast burns out.

 

Yes, I'm sorry I did mean return. Thanks for the input it is appreciated!!!

 

First off, Welcome To 3Reef! You found an exceptional place for reefkeeping information. What's been said in response already, is good advice. You should know, that the two flexible discharges of which you speak are not for flow as much as they are for returning water from your sump. Assuming you're not considering closed loop; powerheads are a must have for water movement if you plan on keeping corals.

Good luck in the hobby!

 

You forgot to mention the other issue with PC's vs T5HO. T5HO put out a LOT more light (PAR) than PC's could ever imagine.

Other than that you post is spot on.;D

PC's while they do work, are by far the least efficient reef tank lighting you can have.

 

im going to play devils advocate and say MH ALL THE WAY lol

 

That's not playing devil's advocate, that is not coloring inside the lines

The OP left the choices to PC or t5. ;D

 

i would beef up the metal halides and not worry about the little lights, if you over shoot with metal halide wattage just shorten the day cycle or make a taller canopy.
as for t 5s or pc s they both can put out decent light and they both have their perks. PCs loose some light due to hitting the other bulb but they are cheaper than t 5s
i have all of the above and I use the little lights for blue ish lighting