I read through this thread and become severely confused. So here are some facts I have dug up for you.
- HPS bulbs usually have a color temp. between 2000k - 2200k (Perfect for FLOWERING).
- The lumen output of a 1000 Watt HPS bulb is around 130,000 - 150,000 lumens.
- The average life expectancy of an HPS bulb is roughly 25,000 - 30,000 hours.
- You can find 1000 Watt HPS bulbs online between $50 - $110 depending on where you buy it.
http://www.altgarden.com/store/cart.php?m=product_list&c=80
- Your average 42 watt CFL will output 2800 lumens roughly.
- CFL's have an average life expectancy of 6,000 - 15,000 hours.
- CFL's can be found in many different color temps depending on your needs.
- On average a 42 watt CFL will run you 14 - 20 dollars a piece.
http://www.altgarden.com/store/cart.php?m=product_list&c=35
Color temp info :
2000k - 2500k (reddish orange light) is great for flowering.
6200k - 6700k (blueish white light) is great for vegging.
If you have a 1000 Watt Ballast then you will be better off buying a HPS bulb and using a few 6500k CFL's to compensate for the lack of blue light.
Even better is if you get a 2 in 1 HPS/MH bulb. These bulbs, known as Dual Arc Tubes, vary in price from $130 - $220. These are an excelent option if you have a 1000 Watt Ballast.
http://www.altgarden.com/store/cart.php?m=product_list&c=151
And as previously stated. Don't ever put an HPS/MH/DAT in a standard socket.