Alpha492
Active Member
I'm looking to switch from HIDs to LEDs or fluorescents, but I'd like to hear from growers with experience with the different lighting systems. I've been using HIDs for about 2 yrs now. The results are fantastic but the power bill is cost prohibitive. I've looked into LEDs but I've heard more than once the power to price ratio just isn't there. Even with Blackstar the power is just not there to come close to matching HIDs. I realize I might lose a little bit of growing power with fluorescents but I'm willing to sacrifice a little bit in order to save money on power.
All this being said my questions are;
Is LED or Fluorescent the way to go?
Given the answer to the above question, what will a I need in order to replace a 400w MH for veg, and a 600w for flower and get 8'x3' coverage?
With fluorescents, are home depot lights just as good as the $250 grow fluorescents, or do grow fluorescents have some advantage over regular lighting. (assuming you are using the same kind of bulbs in both fixtures)
Last question, and before you flame. I know I could spend hours googling around to find the best deal, but could you please save me a bit of effort and recommend a source?
Thanks a bunch guys a appreciate the help in advance!
All this being said my questions are;
Is LED or Fluorescent the way to go?
Given the answer to the above question, what will a I need in order to replace a 400w MH for veg, and a 600w for flower and get 8'x3' coverage?
With fluorescents, are home depot lights just as good as the $250 grow fluorescents, or do grow fluorescents have some advantage over regular lighting. (assuming you are using the same kind of bulbs in both fixtures)
Last question, and before you flame. I know I could spend hours googling around to find the best deal, but could you please save me a bit of effort and recommend a source?
Thanks a bunch guys a appreciate the help in advance!