Bulb busted....

[ga_daisy]

Last night I got home to find one MH light not burning. Upon further inspection, I found glass scattered amongst the rocks, corals and sand....JOY!

I believe I got all of the glass out, it was about like playing the game Operation, but a bit more concerning with my overly curious fish swimming around inspecting what was happening.

NOW....my issue. I cannot get what is left of the bulb unscrewed. Other than the potato trick.....does anyone have any thoughts or suggestions? My tank isn't really set up for ease of operations, so getting to the bulbs is rather difficult. I'm trying to avoid taking it down to get the bulb removed.

And...now, I'm in the market for a couple of bulbs. The other one was due up for changing anyways. I'm running single end 400w 20k (I think...maybe 10k) bulbs. I've not had to replace any since I bought the tank used. Where is the best place to get the best price on the bulbs?

Another question....I've seen water get splashed up on a hot bulb and it just sizzles a bit. I have a wild nut fish that likes to get near the surface and flip his tail and splash anyone nearby. Should I assume that is why the bulb exploded or could it have been caused by something else? AND...if that be the case, what can I do to PREVENT coming home to find my new bulbs shattered on the bottom of the tank.

 

[johnr2604]

Take a pair of pliers, stick them in the end of the bulb base (power off of course) pull out on the handles spreading the jaws against the socket and turn. If that dosn't work, use the pliers to bend the bulb base so the thread are not engaged in the socket.

 

[ga_daisy]

Thanks guys....I've used the potato shoved in the socket when dealing with a regular bulb.

Another quick question....how long would be too long to wait about replacing. I've got classes tonight and not sure if I can make it to see Tim or anyone else in the next few days.

Thoughts?

 

[weaglereefer]

You could take the bulb out on alternating days and switch sides with it.

 

[rolo65]

shouldnt be a problem.....corals and fish go without sunlight for days/weeks at a time in the wild....i would try to not make it any longer than 4-5 days though.....might have some color loss in any SPS.....but nothing that wouldnt come back

 

[ga_daisy]

Thanks...

Yeah....switching out the bulb would work. My biggest fear, my doofus self busting the bulb in one of the back and forths.....:doh: