Lighting Question

[mfinch99]

I have a general question regarding the use of ballasts for lighting. I have an AquaMedic 1x250 plus 2x24W T5 Combo Light. I am assuming that ballasts are interchangeable but I am new to the hobby. My main reason for asking is related to having the most energy efficient equipment I can have long term.

1. Are ballasts interchangeable?
2. Are there advantages to changing ballasts? (i.e. Size, Efficiency, Noise)
3. If so, What are some general recommendations for changing ballasts? (Manufacturers, Products, etc.)

Thanks,

Mike

 

[mfinch99]

I have the MH/T5 Combo Light by Aqua Medic. So the ballast that comes with it is driving both the MH's and the T5's.

By interchangeable I was wondering if I could use any ballasts(like an Icecap) or if I am stuck with what came with the light.

If ballasts are interchangeable, I could have an option to modify down the road based on efficiency, size and noise. Also, what would be considered "the best overall"(I know this is subjective based on personal experience) choice or mindset when looking for efficient solutions to lighting?


Mike

 

[mfinch99]

Since my light is a combo DE 1x250HQI 2x24W T5 I would only replace the ballast if that ballast was more efficient and could support both HQI and T5, like what came with the Aqua Medic. Is there an Icecap that supports both HQI and Fluorescence? Perhaps I am over thinking this and wasting my time. I appreciate the responses.

 

[mufret]

Mike, there are actually two separate ballasts with the Aqua Medic setup. The T5 ballast is either installed in the fixture or in the ballast box and is more than likely an electronic ballast. The MH HQI ballast is installed in the remote ballast enclosure and is more than likely a magnetic ballast. The magnetic ballasts are not as efficient as an electronic ballast but depending on which bulb you decide to use, you might get more PAR out of it than you would an electronic ballast.

 

[ouling]

I ballast for HQI, one for t-5s. Must be rated at the proper wattage.

I use Icecap electronic ballast, it is more efficient than the ones that flicker when you turn them on (made in china mostly).

 

[simon_kruger]

Easy answer, Mike you ballasts are magnetic. there are two in the ballast housing. The 250W MH ballast has a seperate ignitor. Efficiency is contencious discussion.

Magnetics can be a little noisy and run hot. Electronics can have a high pitch whistle.

Come and have a look at mine.

 

[mfinch99]

I assumed that the remote ballast was for both HQI and the T5's. Thanks for the clarification all.

 

[schwaggs]

If you already have a functioning ballast, it is unlikely that you would recoup the cost of a new, more efficient ballast anytime soon.

Chances are the T5 ballast is as efficient as it gets. The place you might get more efficiency is the MH ballast. However, some electronic ballasts are only marginally more efficient than the magnetic counterpart when you consider light ourput (PAR for our animals) vs watts used. Check out Dr. Sanjay's site for more information: http://www.reeflightinginfo.arvixe.com/index.htm">http://www.reeflightinginfo.arvixe.com/index.htm</a>

Or specifically: [IMG]http://www.reeflightinginfo.arvixe.com/selectperformancedata.php">http://www.reeflightinginfo.arvixe.com/selectperformancedata.php</a>

 

[siege]

Apparently good reflectors are at least as important of the quality and type of the bulb.