Crap! I built a hydro unit, and now my Cooltube won't ignite

[LdyMarsRN]

Crap! I built a hydro unit, and now my Cooltube won't ignite. It's all set up...pump in bag, heater, airstone, netpots with Hydroton, and drip spikes. Darn! I have Blueberry seedlings ready to go in the rockwool, into the hydroton and get going. I only used my Cooltube for one grow, about 2 months; could it already need a new bulb? It flashes every now and then, like it's trying to start. Any ideas? Ldy

LdyMarsRN Reviewed by LdyMarsRN on 03-13-2008. Crap! I built a hydro unit, and now my Cooltube won't ignite Crap! I built a hydro unit, and now my Cooltube won't ignite. It's all set up...pump in bag, heater, airstone, netpots with Hydroton, and drip spikes. Darn! I have Blueberry seedlings ready to go in the rockwool, into the hydroton and get going. I only used my Cooltube for one grow, about 2 months; could it already need a new bulb? It flashes every now and then, like it's trying to start. Any ideas? :( Ldy Rating: 5

[Mr. Clandestine]

I'd go ahead and spend the money on a replacement bulb, and give that a shot first. I'm sure it didn't burn out from use, but it may have been a defective bulb. If the new bulb does the same thing, I'd start looking into any warranty that you might have with the ballast. I don't know much about HTG, but many HID manufacturers warranty their products for at least some period of time. If it's defective, hopefully you'll be able to get it replaced. If your electronically inclined, you could open it up and check the leads and wire connections yourself... BUT, this would probably void any warranty it may have if you make it obvious that you tampered with it.

[LdyMarsRN]

I'd go ahead and spend the money on a replacement bulb, and give that a shot first. I'm sure it didn't burn out from use, but it may have been a defective bulb. If the new bulb does the same thing, I'd start looking into any warranty that you might have with the ballast. I don't know much about HTG, but many HID manufacturers warranty their products for at least some period of time. If it's defective, hopefully you'll be able to get it replaced. If your electronically inclined, you could open it up and check the leads and wire connections yourself... BUT, this would probably void any warranty it may have if you make it obvious that you tampered with it.

Thanks man. I'll do that tomorrow. I believe the warranty on the light and ballast was a least 1, maybe 2 years. I've still got the paperwork, and I haven't had it long. I don't think I would mess with the inside since it is under warranty. I'll try a new bulb tomorrow. :thumbsup:

[Mr. Clandestine]

I'll try a new bulb tomorrow. :thumbsup:

Good deal, hopefully the new bulb will work out for ya. It's nice to have a warranty, but hopefully you won't have to go through the hassle of having it repaired/replaced. Who knows how long it could take to have it sent back to you.

Take care. :jointsmile:

[gainesvillegreen]

Call or e-mail HTG. They had a period a ways back where they send out digital ballasts with bulbs that were incompatible. Most bulbs died in days or weeks, but maybe yours lasted longer with the 2-month grow. Either way, HTG should ship you a replacement.

[GaGrown]

The guy at HTG is always ready to make a customer happy. He will replace the lamp/bulb if it is faulty.. I take it,you bought a LumenAce. You have to unplug the ballast for about 20-30 mins,then plug it back in after you replace the lamp.It also has a fuse inside the case. The case is sealed. If the lamp won't fire after you have waited the amount of time,unplugged.. Then try another lamp. If that won't fire then,I would say it was the ballast. They will work with you! It's under warranty,correct?

[daihashi]

HTGsupply has awesome customer service. Regardless of the situation with your ballast I'm sure they will make it right.

:thumbsup:

[LdyMarsRN]

The guy at HTG is always ready to make a customer happy. He will replace the lamp/bulb if it is faulty.. I take it,you bought a LumenAce. You have to unplug the ballast for about 20-30 mins,then plug it back in after you replace the lamp.It also has a fuse inside the case. The case is sealed. If the lamp won't fire after you have waited the amount of time,unplugged.. Then try another lamp. If that won't fire then,I would say it was the ballast. They will work with you! It's under warranty,correct?

Great info guys! I'm off to buy a new bulb right now. Thanks so much to all of you! Ldy

[LdyMarsRN]

Oh, this is what I bought...with a cool hot pink ballast...LOL! *DIGITAL GREENHOUSE 400 watt Digital Electronic High Output Remote Ballast

*COOL TUBE 6"x19" HORIZONTAL REFLECTOR with built-in 15' Socket Cord

*400 watt HPS GROWBRIGHT High Output Horticultural bulb

[GaGrown]

You go Gurl!:thumbsup: