akhockey said:
Hey everyone. I am playing with the idea of upgrading my veg tent to something bigger than 400w. Ive been looking at a bunch of dimmable 1000w set ups that can be run at 600/750/1000watts. Anyone have any experiences with these? good bad indifferent? I'd like to run a 600 but be able to have an extra 1000w come flowering time. Thanks
IMO the new dimmable Ballast are the way to go, I currently use a 1000w dimmable from ACME Hydroponics, "the polaris" Its dimmable to 800, 600, 400, and also has a 1000w super lumens which puts out up to 10 % more lumens than on regular 1000w. Its priced very competitive with others, and they offer package deals with ballast and bulbs. they carry Redstar brand lamps, but are really well priced compared to others.
When using a dimmable ballast you need to follow a few things to protect your lamps tho.
First always have your lamp running for atleast 15 mins before you use the dimmer switch, either turning it up or down.
Second wait atleast 1 min inbetween adjustments" dont just go in and turn it from 1000 to 400 or vise virsa" 1000 to 800 wait 1 min 800 to 600 wait 1 min. and so on ...
Thats another reason i like the Polaris, it is built with "soft dimming technology" Their term not mine , but you can check them out if you like , they have all the details there to explain what it does.