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LED Lighting ?

Discussion in 'General Discussion' started by kmcgill88, Apr 3, 2011.

  1. Apr 3, 2011 #1
    kmcgill88

    kmcgill88 Inactive User

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    Does anyone use LED? I am thinking about getting two of these for my 55: http://www.ledwholesalers.com/store...ductId=702
    I've heard mixed reviews and am not sure what technology to use. The efficiency of LED's amaze me despite the cost. After some time i should recoup it in utility cost. 
    Suggestions, comments please.
     
  2. Apr 3, 2011 #2
    iaJim

    iaJim Inactive User

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    I use AquaIllumination LEDs, and I'm very happy with them. Some here are building their own, but I like knowing that all is built correctly and that they are in commercial enclosures. I'm happy to pay the extra cost to have someone else do that for me.

    As for the lighting, it's great. Fully controllable, and very cool. After running some pretty intense MHs, it's a relief to have these cool lights.
     
  3. Apr 3, 2011 #3
    mthomp

    mthomp Inactive User

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    seeing the AI leds in action is very impressive. The ones you linked seem like a great price, almost to good. I would do some research on the company myself
     
  4. Apr 3, 2011 #4
    blackx-runner Cedar Rapids, IA

    blackx-runner Administrator Website Team Leadership Team

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    I am seriously considering going with AI leds when I get to that point with my 120 gal. Probably start with just 2 units and expand as needed.
    The price is a little intimidating, but I think it will be worth it in the end with electric costs and low heat output.
     
  5. Apr 3, 2011 #5
    Zachstankostosmall Quad cities

    Zachstankostosmall Well-Known ReefKeeper

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    t.
     
  6. Apr 3, 2011 #6
    doug6644

    doug6644 Inactive User

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    The DIY units most people build use 3 watt LEDs, making for a brighter (higher par) unit. I'm waiting to sell off some equipment, and livestock to start building mine. I have already gotten my heatsinks for free, so that knocks 100$ off the build.
     
  7. Apr 3, 2011 #7
    mcclandy

    mcclandy

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    I totally agree with doug6644; making your own fixtures can save you some bucks! The LEDs that have been available for the last couple of years are plenty bright. I use a DIY fixture with 120 3w LEDs on a 150gallon deep tank.
     
  8. Apr 3, 2011 #8
    jtesdall

    jtesdall Expert Reefkeeper

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    I am all about DIY which is the direction I am going. Same LEDs as AI but half the cost. Well see how that goes .....
    If you want to save money on a proven fixture try ReefKois fixture. many people really like them and are getting good results. They only have 1 W LEDs but they have 96 of them. Not nearly the Par of an AI but over $200 each cheaper.
     
  9. Apr 3, 2011 #9
    Tony L. Cedar Rapids

    Tony L.

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    Depending on what you plan on keeping in your 55 you're probably going to want more than 2 of the ones you featured in the link.
     
  10. Apr 4, 2011 #10
    FlyingMoray Minburn, IA

    FlyingMoray Experienced Reefkeeper

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    The ones in the link are not even comparable to the evil par 38s as they are only using 1 watt LEDs.
     
  11. Apr 4, 2011 #11
    Bud West Des Moines, IA

    Bud Loves Bacon Website Team Board of Directors Leadership Team GIRS Member Vendor

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    The fixture I am planning for my 120 wil have 96 3W LEDs. From what I've read, that's about right for a mixed tank or moderate SPS. Softies only I could get away with 72. High SPS I would have to go up to 120 3Ws. 1Ws would give you nice lighting but 3W for corals are a must. And dimming is pretty much required as you only want to burn them full power for about an hour each day anyways or else you'll bleach. At least that's what I've gathered.

    I read quite a bit up on the subject last month or so. Once I get some more time I'll add links to my 120 build thread.
     
  12. Apr 4, 2011 #12
    jtesdall

    jtesdall Expert Reefkeeper

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    Agree with everything Bud except that you have to have 3W's for Coral. There are many that love ReefKoi's 1W fixtures for coral even SPS. The fact is the PAR readings are not nearly as high as 3W, watt for watt but people are growing some beautiful tanks with the evolutions. But again I am going with 3W's myself but don't want anyone to think they have to.
     
  13. Apr 4, 2011 #13
    Gered

    Gered Experienced Reefkeeper

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    Ya if you want to get a Par38 go with a true 3W LED style. I ran a pair over a frag tank and had great results and I believe Potroast is still running his over his frag tank.
     
  14. Apr 4, 2011 #14
    Matt

    Matt Inactive User

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    If you really wanna try LEDs out im proablly going to get rid of my DIY fixture. Its a 12 led fixture all with cree 3w leds. I could finish it, our let you have everything ready to go and you just solder it and your done. PM me if you want more details
     

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