150w MH on a 10G. Just how far should I keep it above the water?

[Hella]

Im getting a 150w hqi with a 13k bulb and was wondering about how far I should be looking to keep it above the tank.

 

Right now there is a 96w PC on the tank so should I start off with the 150w on a shorter timer as to not shock my tank to much?

 

Thanks

Hella

[Korbin]

I keep mine about 7 inches from my 15 tall. It heats the water a bit in the summer but its not a problem.

 

Yes, start the metal halide on a significantly shorter cycle. You could also start it off a lot higher from the water surface at first too. I would start it out 1 hour/day and plan on having it on a full schedule in a month or more.