hanging pendant without using ceiling*update*

[Big_Pun]

I need suggestion on a way to hang a hqi pendant, I don't want use the ceiling also I'm trying to keep it nice looking not so bulky if I can, also tryin not build a canopy I like the open top look

[captexas]

There was someone here not long ago that did this by using a piece of electrical conduit and bending it to extend over the tank and they suspended the light from it. It can be strapped to the back of your stand and you can paint it any color you want so it doesn't stand out so much. You would want to seal it somehow (paint or clear coat) to keep it from rusting.

[txav8r]

It was cpreefguy. I think it was in his Blue Sun Reef thread build. Did a quick search but couldn't find the thread.

[Big_Pun]

ok time for a HD trip

[ballardjr2000]

You can pick up nice looking sturdy shelf peaces for hanging shelves, it should be plenty to handle the hqi. and there are many styles of L brackets for shelves.

[clamgal]

let me know how u plan to do it, I 'm doing the same thing myself
Adriana

[Big_Pun]

i have a window behind my aquarium, so no shelf, that would have been an easy fix

[danny]

Don't think he meant to use a shelf. Use some L type hanging brackets. Take a look at some when you go to HD. There are quite a few nice ones out there that are adjustable. Since you said it's in front of a window, it shouldn't be too hard to hit a frame stud. I'd use some decent length screws if you went that route.

[ballardjr2000]

You can pick up nice looking sturdy shelf peaces for hanging shelves, it should be plenty to handle the hqi. and there are many styles of L brackets for shelves.

exaclty what i meant the stylish L brackets, there are those that hang shelves as well as some that hang potted plants, many choices

[cpreefguy]

I used conduit, it looks really clean as opposed to hanging from the ceiling or shelf brackets that I've used in the past. Here you'll see a rough mock-up. the conduit will attach to the back of the stand using conduit holders.


http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c66/wantedwrx/DSCN9589.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c66/wantedwrx/DSCN9794.jpg

[CoryDude]

++ on the L-brackets. You can get plain or decorative ones depending on your tastes. Should run less than $10 for a pair if you get the plain ones. HD has them usually in the back by closet organization dept and flooring dept.

[Big_Pun]

ok i didnt go "L" bracket i used conduit with a 90 degree elbow and double straps to hold it on the upper and lower 2x4, i have it about 15 inches above the water should i go higher im also goin to use tinted 1/4" acrylic to help dim it a lil, any suggestion on light aclimation for a 250w hqi, yes the t5 is still there i have 96w pc im goin to use for actnic light probally a 460/420 bulb

http://i663.photobucket.com/albums/uu357/stangchris/hqi.jpg

[ErikH]

I used screen from HD, the uhhhhhhhhhhhh fiberglass kind. I tripled the layers. What kind of bulb is in there, what is it's Kelvin rating and what ballast is running it? I can check Sanjay's site to give you better info. Edit: Oh well, if you are running PCs you probably wont have to acclimate. 15" is way too far away. Mine are about 8" off the water

[Big_Pun]

i want to lower it, but scared to burn coral, it's a 10k reeflux DE bulb

[ErikH]

Turn it on and remove the other lights. I doubt at 15" it will burn corals. If they retract quickly its probably because of too much light. If it is a slower retraction, I would assume not enough light. I switched my bulbs and I think the corals are scared of it.

[Big_Pun]

at work right now so I'll try when get home so they should be completly open and I can monitor the reaction to the bulb

[ballardjr2000]

does look good, i think you will be ok with it being 15 inches high.

[carlinsa]

looks good man.