Quote Originally Posted by EvilCartman
Agree with Redtails 100%

Even without a speed reduction, the high velocity of the air will do no harm.

At times, I've had to run my 6" wide open...pulls hard enough that I find carbon bits from the filter, on the glass inside the reflector. Unless somebody pours BBs into your intake, the bulb will be fine.

It really doesn't make much difference which direction the air flows through the hood. But, I think most folks have the air entering opposite the bulb, maybe for fear of particulates suspended in the airstream?

It's overkill, right now. But as you mentioned, you may end up with a filter down the road, and the little 200cfm fan will certainly be inadequate.

Also, if venting the entire space through the hood, make sure to pull the air through the hood. If you must push it, double check the seals of the reflector.
I'm pushing about 700 cfm through a 6 inch-flanged reflector with no ill effects so far. I needed the flow as I have three reflectors in series being cooled by this fan, but the airflow into the first one is the same as having just one light. EvilCartman is right about the reflector seals, as mine, which are pretty high dollar reflectors, dump shitloads of air through the space between the lens and the body of the reflector, at least at the first light in the series, where airflow is still high. In my case this is ok, because the system is sealed and draws air from outside the house, so its just more fresh air to circulate around the girls. I'd be wary of putting a fan downstream of your reflector though, as drawing hot air through the fan motor and bearings won't do them any favors when it comes to longevity.