Metal halides too close to the water?

[Deweys Dad]

My new 90gal tank has a relatively low profile canopy as compared to my last setup, and when my retro dual 175w metal halides came in the mail today I tried to mock them up. The bulbs look like they will come within two or three inches from the surface of the water, and I'm not too thrilled about that. I'm considering using some eggcrate to keep the fish from jumping and splashing the bulbs, but I'm wondering what other problems the bulb height might cause me. Should I be worried about excess heat finding its way into my tank water? I'll be installing a couple fans while I'm putting in the MH kit, but I'm afraid it might not be enough. Any suggestions?

[fat walrus]

the bulbs will get covered with minerals very quickly. if water splashes on it, the bulb can explode.

[thrlride]

That's a bit too close for my comfort.

[pham411]

remember for double ended bulbs you need a uv glass

[thrlride]

He said 175 watts, those are SE. 150 watts are DE's.

[fat walrus]

Originally Posted by thrlride

He said 175 watts, those are SE. 150 watts are DE's.

i, like u assumed that the 175watt was single mogul, but just want to point out that there are obscure brands from china that has 175 DE. don't buy them though, you'll never find bulbs.

[Rob]

im going to agree with them..
you are going to have heat issues (likely)
and unless there is a solid cover you risk shattering the bulb..

too close for my liking i would say 6" minimum

[gwen_o_lyn]

to TR!!

[thrlride]

Originally Posted by fat walrus

i, like u assumed that the 175watt was single mogul, but just want to point out that there are obscure brands from china that has 175 DE. don't buy them though, you'll never find bulbs.

I didn't know that. Thanks for the clarification.