Can I grow with no reflector?

R3xxx

Member
Ok so I want to start a small dwc grow in a closet. Is it possible to only grow with a 400 watt hps bulb for about 30 bucks on eBay? What would I connect it to? I plan to just hang it over from my dwc bucket. All advice greatly appreciated
 

jagle

Active Member
no, the bulbs need special mounts, jsut get a reflector, you are losing at least 50% of the light without one
 

scunkworm

Active Member
I gess you could always get some cardboard and mylar if your abit tight on your budget, get some cardboard and stick the mylar to one side bend the cardboard in the middle and you got something thats better than not having one yeah, scunk
 

mr2shim

Well-Known Member
Worth it to just buy the reflector. You can't just screw a 400w into a regular socket and plug it in. You NEED a ballast too.$30 bucks for a running 400w is impossible unless someone gives you the ballast, wire, mogul socket for free.
 

hoss12781

Well-Known Member
I gess you could always get some cardboard and mylar if your abit tight on your budget, get some cardboard and stick the mylar to one side bend the cardboard in the middle and you got something thats better than not having one yeah, scunk
That could be dangerous (fire hazard). I wouldn't put cardboard no matter what it was covered with anywhere near a HID bulb. Buy a cheap 400w set up on ebay, if you watch auctions you can get an entire set up including ballast, reflector, bulb, and yo yos for about $120. Your first harvest will cover that easy.
 

hoss12781

Well-Known Member
also unless you know where it has been don't buy used lights off ebay. You can grow w/o a reflector but you def need a ballast and mogul socket. I've seen people drop the light down vertically into the grow to take advantage of the 360 degree nature of hid lights. Honestly if this is your first grow just invest the 120 or so in an entirely new set up. Worse case scenario if things don't work out like you had hoped you can pawn it off to someone else on ebay and lose 30-40 bucks.
 

R3xxx

Member
Thanks guys I appreciate the help. I am tight with money basically only with the light source. I am trying to consider my first light choice. Whether to stock up on some 65w cfls or wait till i can afford sum nice shit like a 400w with a ballast and hangers n shit.
 
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