i just got in my new light and blast
- Thread starter yogi dc
- Start date
I remember my first HPS, circa '88. Traded some pot for it (one of the many things I have "bought" with weed).
I got in 3rd-hand, from a guy who got it from a factory that was being demolished where is was usedfor who knows how long.
It had a mechanical ballast, a huge heavy thing with wire's sticking out, totally ghetto-rigged.
And it was LOUD, like a Pinto idling.
I tried enclosing it to soundproof it but it got too hot. Even though I tried as hard as I could, I couldn't quiet it.
The worst part was that the grow space was upstairs from my living room, and when people came over they noticed it.
So until I could afford a new, quieter ballast only my closest friends could hang around in my living room, everyone else I visited with in the garage/rumpus room.
What a relief when I finally switched. An easily-ignored hum.
AND
The first indoor growbook I read, several months after I started, recommended changing the bulb every year. I had no idea how long that bulb had been used but I know for at least 3 years. I went out and bought a 430-watt full-spectrum bulb and man alive what a difference! It was probably more than twice as bright.
So yogi dc I recommend getting a new bulb for that set-up, and keep the old one for an emergency spare.
I got in 3rd-hand, from a guy who got it from a factory that was being demolished where is was usedfor who knows how long.
It had a mechanical ballast, a huge heavy thing with wire's sticking out, totally ghetto-rigged.
And it was LOUD, like a Pinto idling.
I tried enclosing it to soundproof it but it got too hot. Even though I tried as hard as I could, I couldn't quiet it.
The worst part was that the grow space was upstairs from my living room, and when people came over they noticed it.
So until I could afford a new, quieter ballast only my closest friends could hang around in my living room, everyone else I visited with in the garage/rumpus room.
What a relief when I finally switched. An easily-ignored hum.
AND
The first indoor growbook I read, several months after I started, recommended changing the bulb every year. I had no idea how long that bulb had been used but I know for at least 3 years. I went out and bought a 430-watt full-spectrum bulb and man alive what a difference! It was probably more than twice as bright.
So yogi dc I recommend getting a new bulb for that set-up, and keep the old one for an emergency spare.
Hick
Git "R" lit
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I agree. Bulbs lose a lotta' intensity over time, they should be changed out yearly. Though that 'old bulb' may appear reeeeally bright, a new one will astound you, comparitively.
I have a "Maintenance Program". I usually shut down during July, August due to heat issues. So before I re-star in the fall, I change out all bulbs, clean and disinfect, re-paint all reflective surfaces, clean and lube/check fans, ballasts, ect.
I have a "Maintenance Program". I usually shut down during July, August due to heat issues. So before I re-star in the fall, I change out all bulbs, clean and disinfect, re-paint all reflective surfaces, clean and lube/check fans, ballasts, ect.
yogi dc
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The bllast has a soft humm and the blub is new. It came in a new box sealed.the seller said that the bllast had never been used. i already hooked it up. the lights are going to be a good addition to my grow closet. i will start i grow journal for my next grow. this time i did soil next time i going hydro. i already have everything i need for DWC for 4 plants.
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