lighting question

[RichE]

I picked up a 6 ft tank and and came with a hood/canopy. There are 3ft lights with it, but Im not sure if I should mount them to the lid of the canopy.

If I don't go that route, what about mounting a 48" Fluorescent light fixture (shop light), you think that would give enough light to a 6ft tank?

Thanks

Rich

[Regalblue]

I used a 48" dual bulb T5 on my 125 for almost a year.  I was satisfied with the output on it.

[RichE]

did you mount it right to the lid, so when you lift the lid the light lifts up with it?

[Regalblue]

I had it sitting right on top of the lids (homemade eggcrate) 

[GrizzlysDad]

If you are going to mount the shop light, I have chrome reflectors and could bring one the the MCA auction.

[RichE]

If you are going to mount the shop light, I have chrome reflectors and could bring one the the MCA auction.

If I was to mount the 3ft "aquarium" lights I have now would this chrome reflector work?

Blair said I could just sit them on top of egg grate which I have, I just thought if they were mounted it would be nice, this way they are stationary.

My only concern, is the vents on top of the light fixtures would be covered, could I just add some holes to the sides and frt and back to allow air

[Ron]

Adding some holes in the sides to allow heat from the ballast somewhere to go should would work fine.

I've got a couple of 6' tanks with dual 48" bulb fixtures mounted in them and they work great. I actually prefer that the ends of the tank are a little darker because I think it makes the end of the tank look less abrupt. FWIW I never drilled holes though and they've been in use for 6+ years.

[beach]

I agree with Ron - it looks good to have the bright center and dimmer sides  ...  fish like it that way too.