Using 175w bulbs in 250w system.

I think I read somewhere that you can use smaller rated watt bulbs in a higher rated ballast. Anyone ever do that? I'm getting a new light system that is 250w ballast but I want to finish getting the life out of my 175w bulbs first.

Also just a little FYI for anyone that has lighting emergencies. I put my dual 500W halogen shop light over the tank since I have no daytime lights right now and it seemed to be enough to open up my spaghetti leathers polyps. It's very ugly yellow spectrum but maybe transfers some energy.. better than nothing I guess.

 

I'm not sure I would risk it. Something about bulbs exploding over the water scares the crap outta me

 

From my understanding, you can, BUT the sockets will not be the same. If I remember correctly, the 175w has rounded tips and the 250w has pegs that slide into the sockets. Having said this, if your bulbs are SE, never mind my comment, if they are DE, then my comment stands. Luna

 

Ok , thanks.. they're DE. It arrives today so... I'll check it out.