400w HPS vs. 600w

[Backpacker420]

If I'm gonna have a grow room approx. 4W x 4L x 6H, and perhaps 2-4 plants, would a 400w or 600w HPS be better?

I don't wanna buy a 400w and then always be wondering if I should have gotten the 600w...

Backpacker420 Reviewed by Backpacker420 on 02-14-2008. 400w HPS vs. 600w If I'm gonna have a grow room approx. 4W x 4L x 6H, and perhaps 2-4 plants, would a 400w or 600w HPS be better? I don't wanna buy a 400w and then always be wondering if I should have gotten the 600w... Rating: 5

[Twentyinches]

I don't wanna buy a 400w and then always be wondering if I should have gotten the 600w...

imo I would go with the 600. someone might say the 400, which in the end you will be wondering if you got the right one like you said. Sooo...

[Mr. Clandestine]

A 1000W HID would be perfect for that size room, as long as you can keep things well ventilated and cool. But if you're leaning between the 400 and the 600, I'd go with the 600 too. That's like an extra 15,000 lumens or so, and the plants will take as much light as they can get. Remember to spend about as much on ventilation as you would on your light, which will alleviate a lot of problems right off the bat. Good luck!

[Backpacker420]

What would be the price difference per month between a 600w and 1000w HPS?

[Mr. Clandestine]

What would be the price difference per month between a 600w and 1000w HPS?

It's impossible for me to generalize cost with any accuracy because I don't know what you're paying per kilowatt hour. The amount used will also fluctuate when you cut back from a 24/0 or 18/6 photoperiod to a 12/12. And, on top of all that, you have the option of going with an energy efficient digital ballast, which has been getting all sorts of raves because of how much power they're supposed to save over the standard core/coil magnetic style ballasts. The magnetic ballast aren't as efficient as their digital counterparts, and many actually pull more power than the bulb is giving off. Digital is much more efficient, and saves you money on your electric bill.

Sorry I couldn't be more help. There's not going to be too much of an increase between the 600 and the 1000, but if you've never grown with HIDs before, it may seem pretty significant. For a 1000W standard magnetic system, look to spend anywhere from $5-15 extra per week on your power bill... which, again, may be higher or lower depending on where you live.

[keeko]

If I'm gonna have a grow room approx. 4W x 4L x 6H, and perhaps 2-4 plants, would a 400w or 600w HPS be better?

I don't wanna buy a 400w and then always be wondering if I should have gotten the 600w...

lights are one thing but ventilation is another.........a 600 will work but only if you have the needed ventilation.

Mr. C. I like how you said 'sorry i couldnt be more help'.....to me that was so much more help than he asked....rep for ya

[keeko]

sorry mr. cland. i must spead more rep before giving it to you.....next time:thumbsup:

[Mr. Clandestine]

sorry mr. cland. i must spead more rep before giving it to you.....next time:thumbsup:

No problem at all Keeko, I appreciate the gesture.

[Backpacker420]

OK well I definitely appreciate your input Mr. Clandestine but I think for practicality I will stick with the 600w for now. But as I become more experienced and have a larger 'crop' then I will look into selling my 600w and investing in a 1000w.

[Mr. Clandestine]

OK well I definitely appreciate your input Mr. Clandestine but I think for practicality I will stick with the 600w for now. But as I become more experienced and have a larger 'crop' then I will look into selling my 600w and investing in a 1000w.

Understandable, my friend. You'll still be able to grow some killer crops with the 600W system. I hope you don't think I was trying to downplay its effectiveness. Just remember to be mindful of your temps and you should get some amazing results! Best of luck to ya. :jointsmile: