multiple hps lights or one

[harrybuzz]

i scored some 50 watt hps (250 output) so far i have 4 set up mixed with some cfls. with this setup i am able to get the lights pretty close and can put them anywhere for max effect. what are the draw backs of this technique?

[bobjob4u]

I have done that. It will work for a few plants or so.Only draw back is more outlets and plugs to use.

[harrybuzz]

currently they all have a separate power cord. i am going to wire them in series to reduce the # of wires. they only draw a 1/2 amp apiece, so i can fit around 30 or so on a 15 amp power cord. i also will wire the cfls in this same way.

[bobjob4u]

not a bad idea, just remember safety first. nothing like coming home to the fire deparment invading your grow area due to smoke coming out your house due to faulty wiring.

[harrybuzz]

when i am comfortable with the design, i will build it .as long as i don't reverse the polarity ,use the correct connecting hardware, and not exceed the amp rating of the wiring,i will be fine. thats one of the beauties of the internet you can learn the correct way of doing what ever you are interested in

[amnooneoo]

Real world experience will pay off in the end, reading the internet will not solve all of your problems.

I wouldn't wire them in SERIES btw, your going to start a fire with that setup...........

and you'd better keep reading, you will not want to put a full load, ampwise, on a wire just due to its rating. 80% is what you shoot for.

Where are you getting 1/2 amp? Youd better get an amp meter and check that, your current draw will always be determined by the input voltage. Usually the lower watt fixtures are power hogs and waste power and make lots of heat.

[harrybuzz]

i did wire them parallel i just got the terms mixed up. my main concern is safety. plus i only spent 3 cents per watt output, 120$ total on lights and I got 56,700 lumens out of my contraption. With the shields on , i can get the bottom lights up close and personal with no leaf damage. i also put a layer of sand over the soil to reduce the potential bug problems. my electrical has been reviewed by many and have thought it was good and proper. i am running the standard 120 volts at my house i have 14 lights drawing what i believe 50 watts apiece. the lights are wired in parallel and on two different 15 amp max converted extension cords, those are attached to two mechanical timers that are plugged into a surge protector. one 10 inch fan for ventilation and one 6 inch for circulation, on a separate timer. all wire connections have wire nuts and those are secured by friction tape. i am in no way an expert on any of this so your concerns and comments are GREATLY appreciated.

[damonw]

you dont add lumens up to reach a total lumen output but rather you have the listed lumen for each lamp in more areas

[Weezard]

you dont add lumens up to reach a total lumen output but rather you have the listed lumen for each lamp in more areas

Fair enough.

Still, this should prove interesting, yah?

First multiple source, "bronze" light grow, that I've seen.

I could prolly spin all kine theories 'bout why it will, or will not work.;)
But.
Where's the fun in that?:jointsmile:

Bottom line, we wait and watch.
Bet we all learn somthin'.:cool:

Aloha,
Weezard

[harrybuzz]

the plants are looking very healthy. i am 3 weeks into the veg cycle. i think i have taken care of the lil fly problem. and i think i have to repot into 1 gal pots before flower. how long should i wait between the last repot and the beginning of the flower cycle ?

[harrybuzz]

i thought the lumen output total was used to figure lumens per square meter and that was important for good growth . or something like that.