Heat Issues
My new Exo-Terra Setup (18 x 18 x 24) has been up and running since about Novemeber or early December. I bought some really cool T5 lights, a 2ft 8-bulb set up. I closed off the top of the tank with a piece of acrylic to help keep the humidity in, and I have no problems with the humidity. What I have a problem with is the dang heat put out from the lights! I have a small Coralife fan hanging from the acrylic ceiling, and it barely creates a breeze so it does little to help cool the inside. It has been getting up around 96-98 during the day. While most of the 'chids inside don't seem to mind the temps and have been growing like weeds, I am still concerned. Most are Cattleyas and Dendrobiums and a few various other 'chids that do well in intermediate to warm temps. I am afraid I am going to cook them with the heat. I need help with solutions. I have been thinking of adding another fan, but I really think that would help more with air circulation then heat. My lights are vented on the tops and I don't really have a way to put a fan on them that I can think of since there is little room between the lights and the top of the tank, the lights basically sit on the tank. Please Please someone help me come up with a good solution that isn't ugly!!!!
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