Ya I go off actual wattage. I read they are 135 to 140 actual watts. I've done a couple cfl grows that have been successful but could be better. Outdoors is my thing, I'm supplementing now with CFLs because daylight is only 13 hours and some change, may 8th supposed to be at 14 plus and hopefully warm enough to keep out overnight. Either way I'm looking to spending some green on lights to start doing more indoors and LEDs seem to be a great supplemental option along with hps as the main source.
Very nice, if you are doing indoor and want leds I would highly recommend going with cobs. Preferably Cree 3070's or 3590's there are many companies that advertise here on riu that sell premade cobs at good prices. Or you could do a cheaper option of DIY cobs. Cutter electronics I believe it is has tons of videos and kits that are amazing. I'm currently waiting on 3 of the se450's from Amare technologies.
Part of the trouble with leds is you don't always get what you pay for. My 1700$ kind leds shit the bed after 2 weeks, fortunately I sent them back for a refund - shipping of 200$. Most companies use cheaper drivers, leds, even wiring and fans. They are bright which is good but not the whole picture. Efficiency and par watts are the numbers that really matter.
Efficiency is over looked often. An average hps runs at 20% efficient. A 600 watt hps puts out only 120 par watts. Now a 5 cob light that draws 250 watts at the wall and has a 50% efficiency gives off 125 par watts. 5 more par watts and a 350 watt energy savings on electricity and cooling. Hope it helps! Good luck to you.
