1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Saltwater Aquariums

Top 7 PC & MH Lighting Retrofit Kit Picks

By Stan & Debbie Hauter, About.com

In the constant quest for more wattage in the same space, many saltwater aquarium hobbyists choose to upgrade their existing fluorescent lighting by using a retrofit kit to convert the light hood or canopy over to hold either PC (Power Compact) or MH (Metal Halide) bulbs, rather than buying a complete new setup. Did you know there are even lighting retrofit kits made to upgrade the small Aquarium Systems brand Eclipse tanks?

1. Coralife Metal Halide/Fluorescent Retrofit Kit

The polished aluminum reflector provides separate lighting control for two 175-watt metal halide bulbs and for two 48" 40-watt actinic fluorescent lamps. The unit measures 48" L x 10" W x 4" H, and it includes two remote ballasts with long 15' heavy-duty lamps cords, as well as BJB waterproof end caps. Bulbs and cooling fans are sold separately.
Compare Prices

2. Coralife Dual Light Strip PC Retrofit Kit

Completely assembled two-lamp retrofit fixture. This strip light accommodates two T12 rapid start lamps and incorporates a reflector with BJB waterproof endcaps. The retrofit kit is operated by the Coralife 2-lamp electronic ballast. Available in 3 size. Bulbs extra.
Compare Prices

3. Hamilton Metal Halide Retrofit Kit

Complete system. Screw in and plug in for lights. Works with an existing custom canopy. 5 sizes (2'-6') available, includes (1-4) 175w 5500k Metal Halide bulbs, reflector, sockets and ballasts.
Compare Prices

4. PowerQuad Smartlite Power Compact Retrofit Kit

The PowerQuad 96 watt SmartLite Retrofit Kit incorporates the 96-watt PowerQuad SmartLamp, a 4-tube, 18" lamp, with two 10,000 super daylight tubes and two actinic blue tubes, with the single 96 watt Electro-Lite ballast and endcap, and a ready-to-mount polished aluminum reflector for a complete, easy-to-install retrofit kit.
Compare Prices

5. PowerCompact Retrofit Kits

Easily installed PowerCompacts are so intense that watt for watt they will produce twice as many lux as a comparable 110 watt VHO without any increase in heat! Comes prewired and ready for installation into any canopy. Includes Ultra-Daylight and Actinic lamp(s). 6 sizes to choose from.
Compare Prices

6. JBJ Deluxe Power Compact Retrofit Kit

Built in Electronic Ballast with a cooling fan. German Ripple Mirror Reflector Increases Reflective Efficiency by 98% (9" wide reflector for all models) independent switches allow for dawn and dusk effect. Includes: (1-2) Actinic 7100K and (1-2) 6500K Super Daylight bulbs, a highly efficient, energy saving transformer and a roller bearing cooling fan included. Available in 24", 36" and 48" sizes.
Compare Prices

7. Nova Extreme T-5 HO Retrofit Kits

Easily give your aquarium a new level of brilliant brightness with a T-5 HO Retrofit Kit. Ideal for saltwater and reef systems with high light intensity needs. Includes waterproof end caps, dual SlimPaq T-5 HO lightbulbs, professionally housed, external, electronic ballast, German parabolic reflectors, and necessary mounting hardware. Available with either one 10000°K and one 460 nm T-5 or with two 460 nm T-5 bulbs. Available in 24", 36" and 48" sizes.
Compare Prices

Explore Saltwater Aquariums

More from About.com

  1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Saltwater Aquariums
  4. Equipment & Supplies
  5. Buyer's Guide
  6. Product Top Picks
  7. Top Lighting Products
  8. Top PC and MH Lighting Retrofit Kit Picks for Saltwater Aquariums

©2008 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.