Are ALL HPS & MH bulbs equal ? - GreenPassion.org - Dedicated to Medicinal Cannabis Cultivation and Education

Richard Owl Mirror · #1 (**permalink**) 04-29-2009, 12:05 AM

Hello everyone, I'm hoping to purchase this light fixture from my next check.

Lamp Output: 38000 lumens
Lamp Color Rendition: 75 CRI

400-watt PSMH Construction Light; quad-volt CWA HPF ballast; lamp included.
Everyday Low Price $84.90

My question is, will this bulb be good enough for growing or will I need to purchase a different bulb ?

Quote:

PS400/VBU/C/O 400-watt, coated, ANSI-M135/M155, Fixture Type-open, ED37-P bulb, base up operating position, EX39 mogul base ~ $15.30

Does anyone know if this EX39 mogul base is the standard socket available or would I be stuck using their bulb only?

I'm thinking of going with this because it's within my meager budget.
Most every other light system I've seen at grow shop websites is at least double this price.

I have also thought about this fixture.

Lamp Output: 48000 lumens
Lamp Color Rendition: 22 CRI

HID NEMA Floodlight with quad-tap CWA ballast. Includes 400-watt HPS ED18 lamp
Everyday Low Price $115.90

Quote:

400-watt, clear, ANSI-S51, ED18 bulb, universal operating position, E39 mogul base ~ $6.95

Which of the two above would be the better light to go with?
Or am I going to waste my money by trying to go this route ?

Zigzagman · #2 (**permalink**) 04-29-2009, 08:39 AM

The Mogul base they are referring to , is the larger base. A 1 piece fixture will work but, you'll have the heat issues to deal with. A split system is much easier to cool. I would suggest buy used on E-bay or Craigslist. Good luck.

green_nobody · #3 (**permalink**) 04-29-2009, 09:28 AM

the mogul base or E40 as it is called in Europe is an international standart base on HID bulbs.

second thing to keep in mind: don't compare less then 400W HPS with 400-1000W HPS bulbs, the smaller bulb sizes have in general poor output in Lum/W. A 400W yields around 40,000-50,000 lumen, so the construction light is rather a poor choice as well.

And of cause are their some differences between MH and HPS bulbs, starting with that both need a different ballast to run with, then that a 400W MH yields about 100-125 Lum/W - so less then a HPS. There are special bulbs that are interchangeable bulbs but the cost more too.

maybe check this one out on ebay, Hydrofarm Super Grow Wing 400w HPS Hortilux Grow Light - eBay (item 300310827899 end time May-03-09 13:58:44 PDT) that with a new bulb for $30 will let make you grow some fine bud

Nimbliez · #4 (**permalink**) 04-29-2009, 11:33 AM

A couple weeks back Medicincloset acquired one of the frosted type MH bulbs and was disappointed. The frosting takes from the lumens and lowers the lum/wat ratio. Always try to go with a clear bulb, I like the second one you posted. Luck and Life,
Nim

Richard Owl Mirror · #5 (**permalink**) 04-29-2009, 12:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nimbliez

A couple weeks back Medicincloset acquired one of the frosted type MH bulbs and was disappointed. The frosting takes from the lumens and lowers the lum/wat ratio. Always try to go with a clear bulb, I like the second one you posted. Luck and Life,
Nim

Hi Nimbliez, if I went with the second light, would this bulb be usable for growing?

Quote:

400-watt, clear, ANSI-S51, ED18 bulb, universal operating position, E39 mogul base ~ $6.95

In my situation, eliminating heat shouldn't be any problem.
I can vent directly in to the attic which is quite large.

I realize this isn't quite Kosher, not buying the same 'Grow Lights' offered at Grow Shops but, I feel if they perform the same function, why not save the money.

Unless anyone can offer another option.
I'm unable to use EBAY because I don't have a Bank account.
I really need to increase my light requirements now that I have premium seeds to grow. I was Ok using the CFL's with bagseeds.

Any help appreciated !

Richard Owl Mirror · #6 (**permalink**) 04-29-2009, 12:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by green_nobody

the mogul base or E40 as it is called in Europe is an international standard base on HID bulbs.

second thing to keep in mind: don't compare less then 400W HPS with 400-1000W HPS bulbs, the smaller bulb sizes have in general poor output in Lum/W. A 400W yields around 40,000-50,000 lumen, so the construction light is rather a poor choice as well.

And of cause are their some differences between MH and HPS bulbs, starting with that both need a different ballast to run with, then that a 400W MH yields about 100-125 Lum/W - so less then a HPS. There are special bulbs that are interchangeable bulbs but the cost more too.

maybe check this one out on ebay, Hydrofarm Super Grow Wing 400w HPS Hortilux Grow Light - eBay (item 300310827899 end time May-03-09 13:58:44 PDT) that with a new bulb for $30 will let make you grow some fine bud

Hi green_nobody, thanks for the link.
I have a problem with not being able to use EBAY because I don't have a bank account.
Plus, Current bid: US $94.60 + Shipping: US $25.00 + $30.00 new Bulb is growing beyond my budget.
I really can't afford to buy the lights above in my original post but, I'll do without eating for a week if it means I can grow out these plants properly.

Nimbliez · #7 (**permalink**) 04-29-2009, 12:51 PM

Yes Rich, I believe this would be a good fixture and bulb to use for your grow, If it fits your pocketbook, another plus. Keep the heat under control, and it will definately do you justice. Luck and Life my friend.
Nim

PotNinja · #8 (**permalink**) 05-01-2009, 06:23 PM

The floodlight you point out is pretty good quality for the price and will work for flowering. If you want to upgrade to a better bulb you can but you will get good results just using the one that came with it. Last time I checked I think they had replacement bulbs for $5.

I don't have any experience with the newer pulse start stuff so I can't help you there.

If you order from e-conolight I don't think you'll have any problems or be diappointed in what you receive. I'll also go ahead and recommend the floodlight, it's a pretty good deal.