Reflectors to reduce light loss

Discussion in 'Reef Lighting' started by ska d, Jul 27, 2012.

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  1. ska d

    ska d Spanish Shawl Nudibranch

    Joined:
    Jul 8, 2012
    Messages:
    85
    This may just be a lame duck. But i was wondering if anyone has used a reflector installed outside the tank. I dont have a canopy and there is alot of light splashing the wall behind the tank. My thought was to mount a reflector ( i have a brand new 48" reflector) behind the tank on the wall to see if some of the light can be re directed back into the tank. Here is my current setup. Mind you this is a work in progress as i plan on uprgrading to full led system.
    2 x 54w hot5
    2 x 24w hot5
    ( both have ati bulbs. Aqblue spec. And bluplus. One in each.)
    2 x 7w aquasunspot leds. These are over 90 g. 24" deep
    Heres the thing i have the 24w unit suspended, about 8" high to accomadate the led fixtures which are mounted with a arm to the wall about 6" high. This is where the light is mostly being lost.
    The 54 w unit is mounted to the front so there is light lost there too but a reflector would just be ugly across the top front of the tank. Or would it ?. Has anyone tried anything similar or this one of those ideas that ends up being more trouble than its worth.
     
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  3. 2in10

    2in10 Super Moderator

    Joined:
    Aug 6, 2009
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    19,258
    Location:
    Sparks, NV
    Canopies work best for hiding and you could make the interior reflective if you desire.