MH DE or SE

[rockmp]

What are the pros and cons of each? Do you get better par readings out of SE vs DE? Better growth?

[BIGBIRD123]

Mark, I have used both. There are good and bad about each. The DE required constant cleaning of the UV glass, which I hated and to me seemed to lose par faster and less available choices. The SE seemed to last longer, had more par to me and lots more choices to choose from. They are generally less expensive also. After using both, I now prefer the SE. You must also consider the reflector and IMO the best 2 out there are the Lumenbrite and Lumenarc. I use the Lumenbrite.

[rockmp]

I think I am going to switch over to SE with a lumenbrite. Now got to look at some bulbs.

[BIGBIRD123]

Reeflux 12k is the only way....

[Bill S]

Mark, I have used both. There are good and bad about each. The DE required constant cleaning of the UV glass, which I hated and to me seemed to lose par faster and less available choices. The SE seemed to last longer, had more par to me and lots more choices to choose from. They are generally less expensive also. After using both, I now prefer the SE. You must also consider the reflector and IMO the best 2 out there are the Lumenbrite and Lumenarc. I use the Lumenbrite.

I agree with Steve's points. I switched from DE to SE because I wanted to go to Lumenbrite reflectors. The choice in bulbs was WAY better, too.

As for K, that's very much a personal preference. If you want good growth (like early on), go with a 12K bulb. I really loved my Helios 20Ks, but they aren't available any longer. Good growth, and great color. And noo need for actinics. Some don't like the color, though. Allegedly, the Reeflux 20Ks are similar.

[CoryDude]

What about the Lumen Max Elite HQI? That is a pretty sweet reflector for DE.

[alton]

I agree with Steve, I started with DE but switched to SE and love the Reeflux 12K. They last me around 18 months. My old Coralvue DE lamps lasted 8 months. My bosses tank has Giesemann DE lamps and they last around 2 years. If you use SE lamps make sure you match the ballast to the lamp. Electronic Ballast and electromagnetic ballast work with pulse start lamps and the old mag ballast work with probe start. All ballast made this year should be electromagnetic or electronic per federal regulations.