Instructions
Decide how much you want to spend, and whether the metal halide fitting must be new, or if you are happy to buy pre-owned. If you are on a tight budget, you may wish to consider buying a pre-owned fitting. Aquarists change or modify tank setups all the time, and part of the fun is trading surplus equipment with fellow hobbyists as you move on to bigger projects. Metal halide light fittings are expensive when purchased new, but it is not difficult to find a used fitting and save some money.
Search online classified advertisements and fish-keeping forums for a metal halide light fitting. Compare the prices of a few fittings to gauge how much you should expect to pay for a used item. Some sellers inflate their prices with the intention of knocking a few dollars off the cost if requested, so bear this in mind. If an item seems too expensive, be prepared to negotiate a price if necessary.
Browse the Internet. Sites like Craigslist, Amazon and eBay are packed with new and pre-owned aquarium accessories. Monitor trends on two or three items, and you will learn the best time to bid and grab a bargain. You can also track down factory refurbished or store returned items on auction websites at reduced prices. They may have torn packaging or an open box, but are unlikely to be used. If you want a cheap, almost new light fitting with little or no use, a store return is the way to go.
Buy a new metal halide fitting from a pet store or specialist outlet. If you don't like the idea of owning another person's metal halide light fitting, visit a store or order through an Internet-based shop. Ordering online can be cheaper, but if you want to see the fitting before you buy, go to a traditional shop.
How to Find a Metal Halide Lamp Fitting
Metal halide lamps provide a close-to-natural light source in large aquarium setups. Saltwater reef tanks benefit from the intense light output and high photosynthesis rates. Freshwater aquariums with metal halide lamps provide a beneficial environment for plants because of the near-natural light quality of the bulbs. Metal halide lamp fittings are often pre-installed in the hood of a shop-bought aquarium, but you can buy a separate fitting and install it yourself. You can pick up pre-owned aquarium gear online, in classified advertisements and through fish enthusiast forums, or buy new from a specialist shop.