Lighting in Canopy

[Iconz]

I'm getting ready to build the canopy for my 20h. I'm going to install my 4x24 t5 lighting setup into it.

How far off of the water should I have these lights?

Also, should I have 3 or 4 inches above the lights to install fans, or would fans just below the lights do fine?

I had thought that if i put fans above the lights, blowing out it would help some of the rising heat leave the canopy.

Thx,
JD

[RHAPALA]

WELL I'M NOT REALLY SURE ON THIS BUT I'MN TOLD ABOUT 6 INCH ABOVE THE WATER...AND 1 FAN SHOULD DO THE TRICK

[jojo22]

That sounds about right. You may want to consider 2 fans. one pushing fresh air into the canopy and one pulling the old air out!

[Iconz]

Well, can you have too many fans? I ask because I have 10 3" fans that I ordered online (10 were cheaper than 4 due to free shipping and discounted rate when you buy 10 or more). So, I had thought of doing at least one fan on each side below and between each light.

Example:

[jojo22]

I'll buy 2 of them off of you if you want! And I think that is a great idea. I would make oneside pull air in and one side pull air out. Some may say it's overkill but hey if it makes you feel safe go for it. Keep in mind that evaporation will also probably occur faster so maby two on each side would help cut down on that and still make you feel all warm and fuzzy about it!

[Iconz]

bleh, they were only a 1.19 each bud, so just pay shipping, and I can get them to ya.

Hmm, didn't know fans would effect evaporation... Interresting to know.

[jojo22]

Not sure on that but it would stand to reason that the more dry air crossing the top of your tank the more water would evaporate.
Let me know how much shipping is to 44705! Thanks buddy!

[Iconz]

Well, the function of the fans in the first place is heat controll, right? So why not angle the input fans so that they blow slightly up to avoid or at least reduce contact with the water...?

[jojo22]

Might help but the air is still in an enclosed area which would increase the humidity of that area. You are in idea trying to push the hot humid air out and let cold dry air in. I don't see it being a big problem just letting you know that you may need to keep a closer eye on your top offs than some other people. It would also be ideal if you had a sump with an auto top off unit then there would be much less to worry about!

[Iconz]

ya, well i am going to have an ATO anyway with a 5 gal resivoir sp?