Mh light

[bizzy323]

I was wondering if I can directly connect a 250watt Mh bulb to a e39 socket.

[notthecops]

ummmmmmmmmm NO!!

Not unless you wanna start a fire. You need the ballast and 'palm' socket.
Show me a pic of what you got.

[notthecops]

Ok, I think I got you. See it's not called an e39 socket where I'm from. After doing a quick search, I found this to help you out:
http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2002-06/jg/

[bizzy323]

Do I still need a ballast?

[notthecops]

Yes. Why is it that you don't want a ballast? Is it for heat concerns or something?

[rev.clone]

how hot will a ballast get?? Is it a fire hazard???

[Goldie]

RevC, nice to see you back! Ballasts are fine, especially when they are new and put together properly. What did you get? Thanks.

[notthecops]

A bare ballast gets HOT! Hot enough to light wood on fire. If it's enclosed in a case, it's still hot enough to melt a candle, but can be placed on wood. If it's heat you're worried about, you can put the ballast ouside the room, and make a longer cord.

[bizzy323]

how far away should i place the light from the plants?

[bizzy323]

i have a 400watt system mh and hps bulbs

[Goldie]

Start it about 2' up. Put your hand right over the plants. If your hand is too warm, the plants will be too.

[bizzy323]

should i put a fan for the bulb to keep it cool?

[Goldie]

It wouldn`t hurt. Do you have pics? Can you post some so we can see what you`re doing? It would be easier to help if we could see...thanks.