NukaKola
Well-Known Member
Maybe 3 1000w in a sealed room with 10-12’ ceilings but for a 5x9 tent that is likely not more than 8’ tall 2 1000W SE’s or even 3 600W is fine.45w sq/ft isnt enough for optimal production.
Ive been using 1000w SE-HID since they came out in 1978, and have never run into issues, but Ive always had good growing conditions, like tons of fresh air, and ventilation.
Also if one uses a DE HID with the 4800umol, your good to go with 2 lights in 45 sq/ft.... DE-HID is good for a 5 x 5 anyway. so 2 of them will cover 50 sq/ft.
The going by w/sq is a guide, and is correct for measuring normal SE-HID, but the DE-HID is a bit more efficient, and powerful so it doesnt really apply to DE-HID
2 of the DE-HID is equal in PAR to 3x 1000w Hortilux.
But 45w sq/ft isnt strong enough for Single Ended HID. It is for DE-HID at 1150w.
The sun is closer to 125w sq/ft at the equator. Its never less than 100w sq/ft. Go up 6000-8000 feet into the Andes, and the light is even stronger, especially UVA/B. The main thing is the stronger the light, the more fresh air/CO2 you need.
We start seeds under 1150w DE Gavita.
Personally I would go with 3 600W for a tent since it requires less distance from canopy and you likely won’t need the extra penetration of the 1000w since there isn’t enough available canopy space with the limited height of a tent.
The recommended height from canopy for a 1000w DE is 30-36”, then factor in about two feet for the pots and light itself and you’re only left with 3’ of available canopy height.
Sure you can start seeds under a 1k Gavita but what’s the point. That’s a waste of money. An LED or CMH will veg plants just as good for a fraction of the cost.