Do You Use Hoods On Your CFLs?

[screamingfit]

I've been looking through many of the CFL grow threads on here and seem to notice something: No one seems to use hoods on their CFLs. I'm not talking they $60 - $100 horizontal hoods - I'm talking those small cone reflector types that come standard on many clamp on light fixtures like I've attached on this post.

I thought using the hoods was "good practice" - reflect all available light onto the plants, right? That seems to be the word from things I've read.

It does seem to be a pain using the hoods, though. Heat builds up easier, arranging them is nightmarish because the hoods are almost too big to get the CFLs 1" - 2" away.

Heck, I might not even needs hoods - growing in a highly reflective 2x2 tent.

So, any one have a thought on this? Are you just throwing lumens to the ether without using a hood - even in a reflective area?

 

[Matchbox]

Generally it's good Practice to use some form of reflective material, I just built a "hood" for my 2, 300w cfls as they are going above my plants horizontally, I think most people don't use hoods on little cfls cos o the cost, more of the plant has access to the usable light without one like I you put em in between plants what's the use of having a hood lol, hub like you said they ge hot and are a bitch to position the lights effectively ooh and the light is usually reflected at one point at least if you have Mylar most of the lumens are saved.

 

[missnu]

I used one of the horizontal hoods, and it reflected the light well, but my results still weren't comparable to MH or HPS bulbs

 

[pacificarage]

I just built a "hood" for my 2, 300w cfls

300 watt CFLs? No.



The trouble with those standard clamp reflectors is that they are aimed vertical towards the plant. The bulbs put off more light on the sides. But I still use them

 

[Matchbox]

300 watt CFLs? No.

yup 300w (actual wattage) 9u, CFL's from basement lighting.

in case your wondering http://www.basementlighting.co.uk/Merchant2/merchant.mv?page=1/prod/300cfl

 

[screamingfit]

yup 300w (actual wattage) 9u, CFL's from basement lighting.

in case your wondering http://www.basementlighting.co.uk/Merchant2/merchant.mv?page=1/prod/300cfl

Wow - that thing is a monster! Are you finding that the cost/benefit ratio to be good? Do you do any supplemental lighting with those beasts?

I think I'm going to try my next grow without these cone-shaped hoods. Just starting out and always second and triple guessing decisions with my lack of experience in all things green.

 

[Gastanker]

Hoods have a HUGE impact on CFL cast pattern but at the same time you are generally better off hanging the CFL slightly below the canopy with no reflector - maximizes light while minimizing re-strike.

This might be helpful -
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[pacificarage]

yup 300w (actual wattage) 9u, CFL's from basement lighting.

in case your wondering http://www.basementlighting.co.uk/Merchant2/merchant.mv?page=1/prod/300cfl

Wow! I have never in my life seen one that big. I gotta get me one of those! Although, I noticed it requires an E40 socket. I wonder if they make any in E27s. :/

I just thought you were another person that was confused with the incandescent equivalent wattage. My apologies, sir.

 

[calicatt79]

can i just say "MEGA MONSTER CFL" holy cow I want one
N yes, I made a hood that fits 3 y shape adapters out of some aluminum chimney piping - real real cheap....like 5 bucks cheap, and it makes a world of difference. I think when you don't see the reflector hoods it's probably side lighting so it can get real close to the leaves. Reflectors on the top.

 

[Clonex]

Any light is better with a reflector directing light exactly were you want it, any Light, Peace.

 

[Matchbox]

Wow - that thing is a monster! Are you finding that the cost/benefit ratio to be good? Do you do any supplemental lighting with those beasts?

I think I'm going to try my next grow without these cone-shaped hoods. Just starting out and always second and triple guessing decisions with my lack of experience in all things green.

The cost isn't so bad, they last anything between 3-5 grows and definately pay for themselves in yield over the time... they are VERY Cheap to run my bill for the whole apartment monthly is £40 and thats including PC, Xbox, TV's, Oven and all that crap, works out my CFL's I think, cost about £3-5 give or take per month which is nothing really. As for supplemental lighting I now have 2x 23w 2700k Cfls a 45w Fluoro tube (both for side lighting) and a 90w UFO (led mixed specturm).

Hoods have a HUGE impact on CFL cast pattern but at the same time you are generally better off hanging the CFL slightly below the canopy with no reflector - maximizes light while minimizing re-strike.

This might be helpful -

Exactly! +rep XD

Wow! I have never in my life seen one that big. I gotta get me one of those! Although, I noticed it requires an E40 socket. I wonder if they make any in E27s. :/

I just thought you were another person that was confused with the incandescent equivalent wattage. My apologies, sir.

haha no worries, I wonder what their incandescent equiv is, like 4000w lol XD they are ridiculous huge though and the E40 sockets w/4m of lead are only about £5 so no biggy really.