HPS light work without ballast?

[gabec803]

Was just wondering if they would work without a ballast? and if they would what are the side effects? Would i see a difference in bud growth during the flowering stage if i use a ballast instead of just hooking them up regularly?

[Charbud]

You need a ballast otherwise the bulb could blow out, explode, catch fire. Ballast regulates current, if theres a surge in the current and your not there you can say bye bye to your plants and possibly your home !