Help buying a ballast for HPS

So, after doing some research I decided to pick up a 250w HPS for my entire grow. Space is 1' x 2'. (Just 2 plants)

Now, I realize the bulbs are just a fraction of the cost of the ballast but that's not the problem. I would like to walk into a store and buy the ballast, not online.

Where the hell can I find one? Not a kit either, a plug and play. I see many stores like Home Depot sell the bulbs but not the ballast!

Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

I am sure you probably have a Hydro/ Garden store around where you live right? So, go ask some questions and figure out what you need.

And if you want to save some money, seriously order it online. Home Depot is not really the place to buy your light setup, they do carry MH & HPS ballasts and bulbs but they are not designed for growing plants. In all honesty, get a good setup to begin with, you will be happier in the long run that you did

Thanks, you are probably right about ordering online. I'm just wary of having that stuff sent directly to my house. Paranoid about security complications and all. I feel that if I go into a store to buy it I would be safer.

Just google hydroponis store and your area code. Even if it's a long drive it'll be worth it

Check online, most stores even in your area will have some sort of lighting special. So google "your town" hydroponics. Find out whats in the area and specials. Most stores have sales 3-5 times a year. April 20th, July 4th, Labor Day, end of year. Not exactly those dates but something like that. 10-20% off.

Thanks for all the input guys, I went to my local hydroponics store today and pick up a lighting system. 400w Agrosun combined MH/HPS, ballast and reflector. I'm happy, gonna set it up tomorrow since I couldn't really walk through the house with all that in my arms. I think I'll upgrade to 4 plants since I got the higher wattage bulb.