Hey all, noob question here… can I turn up the watts on my 600w mh/hps Vivosun lamp with digital ballast? It’s on 250 with the mh bulb in now and I want to turn it up. Can I do it while it’s on or does it have to be off? My dark period is when I’m not home… would you go to 400 or 600? Thanks, Pin
Crank it up??
- Thread starter Pinboy122
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Doug Dawson
Well-Known Member
Should be fine to adjust when on. The HID instruction manual I just pulled online says:
10. Allow 10 seconds between power adjustments when using the Dimmer Switch. This will allow the ballast sufficient time to gather electrical charge to increase wattage output.
hotrodharley
Well-Known Member
You should always start HID at full power. Follow instructions then on dimming.
I’ve had a ton of mistakes getting this grow started. I couldn’t run on full because of heat issues. Now that I have that sorted out I want to get some wattage in the cottage and get these plants moving!
Doug Dawson
Well-Known Member
Good luck bud. One of the problems with dimming HID systems is it alters the spectrum. For a 600 watt bulb to have the optimum spectrum it was designed for it needs to run at full power unlike led where dimming doesn't change spectrum. Your plants will be happier now that you sorted out your issues. Not only will they get much more light, they will get the correct optimal spectrum of light.
ExoticKangaroo
Well-Known Member
Solid info. As an LED grower I never knew this but it makes perfect sense.
I never even considered that Doug, thanks! So I guess that just adds to the torture of these poor girls even more! Lol...they’re gonna make it but I can’t wait to start the next round. Great info, thanks again