DIY Metal Halide Fixture

Many marine hobbyists prefer metal halide lights because of the intense and natural light they produce. They provide marine invertebrates, such as anemones and living coral, with the correct spectrum of light required for photosynthesis. Hobbyists also can choose the ideal color temperature for their aquarium. Metal halide lights are available from 5,000K to 20,000K, with the high range producing an intense purple to blue light. The metal halide light fixture requires planning, though, as these lamps are both heavy and give off heat.

Things You'll Need

  • Metal halide light holder, complete with socket adapters and controller unit
  • Two 20,000K metal halide lamps
  • Aluminum reflector material
  • Small tin of heat-resistant glue
  • Small paint brush
  • Drill with wood bits
  • Screwdriver
  • 2 screws
  • Electrical timer
  • Electrical lead, complete with three-prong plug
  • Glass splash cover
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the metal halide light holder in the middle of your upturned canopy and mark the position in which it will be secured. Most store-bought canopies will have a slightly recessed area in which to secure a light unit.

    • 2

      Drill two holes into the canopy, just slightly smaller that the screws in the two pre-marked spots, and secure the light holder in place by screwing the unit tightly into the aquarium hood.

    • 3

      Cut the aluminium reflector material to fit inside the full length of the light unit. Apply approximately 1/2-tsp. of the heat-resistant glue to one side of the reflector material and glue the reflector onto the inside of the light unit. Leave the light unit and glue to cure for an hour.

    • 4

      Remove the metal halide bulb from its protective packaging. Do not touch the glass of the bulb. Hold the bulb by the ceramic ends and gently push it into the socket. Ensure that the bulb is mounted correctly in the socket.

    • 5

      Remove the second metal halide bulb from its protective packaging and repeat the process, as in Step 4.

    • 6

      Thread the electrical lead through the pre-drilled port in the side of the canopy and connect to the controller unit.

    • 7

      Place the glass splash cover on top of the aquarium. This prevents water from splashing onto the metal halide lights and condensation from getting into the light sockets.

    • 8

      Place the aquarium canopy on top of the tank.

    • 9

      Plug the controller lead's plug into the timer and set the timer to run between 07H15 and 19:15. Plug the timer into a wall power source and switch it on.