bill, if you would like to save some $$,give a thought to ah lighting. they come with 2 ballast's and can time your lights. the reflectors in their kits are the key to good lighting. coralife lamps are very pricey. i have 24" that i bought used and does not seem like it puts out very much light for being a compact. it may be that light going thru their plastic lens and mine setting on glass may be why. regards, cornhusker