250 vs. 400

[ryan]

I am setting up a 54g (36x18x20). I have a delimma regarding light. I am uncertain if one 250w MH will be enough, or if I should run two. Or, if I should just go with the 400w, seeing as I get that cheaper than one 250w anyway. If I go with 250w, I am afraid I will get a large fadeout of light in the corners and ends of the tank, unless I go with two. I saw a store with one 250 over a 36x24x12 and the ends and corners were dim. Any suggestions or experience with this? /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/confused.gif

[Chuck S]

A Halide will best light a 24x24 area. You will have some fade out. The fade out will be less generally with a 400 watt halide depending on bulb selection.

[tendar]

I have run a 250 over a 38x18x21 before and had very good success just dont put high light requiring corals on the edges. I am acutally getting ready to setup another tank of the same dimensions and will be going with a single 250 HQI set on it. It is better with 2 but one will work.
The 400 will not cover more of the tank but just give a stronger light out put in the same area but will get a stonger light to the edges of the tank.