im new to growing and i was just wondering what a ballast was and what does it do? and do i need one if im going to use a compact fluorescent bulb for veg?
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im new to growing and i was just wondering what a ballast was and what does it do? and do i need one if im going to use a compact fluorescent bulb for veg?
READ, READ, READ AND READ SOME MORE. YOU'LL FIND EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW IN THE FAQ'S AND THE SEARCH BUTTON.
GOOD LUCK
yes read... but since you asked...
'Ballast' is the name used for a fixture that holds a light bulb.
No you will NOT need one for CFLs.
I use CFLs and what i did was i bought a few 10' extension cords (can be smaller if you please) and also bought these little adapters from home depot that allow you to plug a light bulb directly into a standard outlet. Then i just hung the extension cords with the bulbs plugged into them.
PEACE
Well really the part that holds the bulb is the mog socket base.
The transformer is the power source that transforms your house current into a higher voltage so it can power the light. (in an HID system)
They put out a lot of heat so most growers prefer to use what they term as remote ballast. That is just a high voltage cord from the transformer to the hood that holds the mog socket.
i am stoned. you are right. i couldnt remeber what a ballast was but now i remeber b/c i deal with them with HID headlights on cars. But i always thought the term ballast refered to the fixture that held the HID bulb in the housing?