Are Metal Halide Lights Dangerous?

A properly installed and shielded a metal halide lamp is safe and may be necessary to keep certain plants and animal in an aquarium. Water and electricity do not mix, so there is a potential for real danger if care isn't taken during installation and maintenance.

  1. Water Damage

    • Planted freshwater aquarium.

      Metal halide lamps burn very hot and splashing cool water on the lamps during maintenance or by energetic fish can cause them to burst or crack. Most manufacturers suggest using tempered safety glass between the lamps and the water.

    Electric Shock

    • Most metal halide kits come unassembled, and basic wiring knowledge is needed to put them together. An improperly wired fixture could lead to severe shock or fire if the wires are left exposed.

    Burns

    • Touching the lamps while they are on or before they have had a chance to cool off could lead to severe burning. The tempered safety glass can also get quite hot and cause burns or melt plastic.

    Eye Damage

    • The light being emitted by a metal halide lamp is very intense. Staring directly at it could lead to retinal damage, so be sure to always include a shade or reflector on the fixture.

    Safety

    • Observe the lamps regularly when they are off and replace any cracked lamps immediately. Wait for the lamps to cool down for 20 minutes before attempting to touch them.