Question about light positioning

I have a 2x4 ebb and flow tray and 2x2 quadray square reflector holding a bulb horizontally. I was wondering since its a square reflector would it matter if the bulb ran parallel with the tray or not?

Whichever way it seems to be putting the most light on the grow area.

Illegal Smile said:

Whichever way it seems to be putting the most light on the grow area.

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Hehe good point, but I was wondering if anyone knew if it would make a difference or not.

It matters that it is horizontal, but its orientation to the tray is something that would have to be observed. The differences are no doubt marginal.

ahh cool. the reason I am asking is because the room I am using is in an unfinished basement with a very low ceiling. If I place the light perpendicular to the tray I can slide it up between two of the boards on the ceiling and gain another 3-6 inches of room but if I put it parallel i lose that extra height. 3-6 inches doesnt sound like much but I am already working with less then the recommended height for the plants I am using so every inch counts.

Here are a couple pictures of my reflector to give you all an idea of what I am talking about.

Oh, I forgot to mention that its a 400 watt HPS bulb if that makes any difference.