How to Suspend Metal Halide

Metal halide lighting can bring out the best in your aquarium. Fish and coral will benefit from these lights because they closely mimic sunlight. Hanging metal halide lamps is not difficult, but it does take some planning. The lights usually come with hanging kits, but if not, you can get a kit from your local pet store or aquarium dealer. If you are unable to find a hanging kit for your specific type of halide light, contact the manufacturer.

Things You'll Need

  • Metal halide hanging kit
  • Ladder
  • Stud finder
  • Drill
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Instructions

    • 1

      Situate your tank and your light fixture in the desired spot. Keep in mind that aquariums should be kept out of direct sunlight. Fluctuations in the water temperature can cause unwanted algae blooms and a host of other problems. Use a stud finder to locate and mark the joists and electrical wires in your ceiling. Use caution when drilling into your ceiling. Many times there are live electrical wires running to your electrical receptacles. Metal halide lamps can be heavy, and you'll want to make sure your light is anchored securely. Drill two holes where you'll be hanging the lamp. Measure the top of the tank to ensure that your light will cover the entire tank.

    • 2

      Locate the wood beam in the ceiling. Using a mounting bracket as a template, drill two pilot holes in the intended locations. Do not install in drywall. Slide hanging screws into the bracket top down. Place the mounting bracket on the ceiling, and screw it into the wood beam using wood screws. Once secure, you can adjust the length of your cables. You want to keep at least 8 inches of space between the top of your tank and the bottom of your light fixture. Coil any excess cable tightly and lay it flat into the cap bolts. Align the hanging screws with the mounting cap, and slide the screws through the cap. Thread the hanging cap bolts on and tighten.

    • 3

      Monitor your aquarium for the next 24 hours, making sure the temperature remains between 76 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit. If your aquarium is warmer, you may need to adjust the height of your metal halide lamp. Excess heat can cause a variety of problems for your aquarium, including death of some corals.