PC vs T5

How does a 42'' over all 2 x 55w PC setup compare to 36" overall TEK 2 T5 Retro Kit 2 x 39W lamps?

The T5 setup has lower overall watts....but does that equal the PC or should I stay with my PC setup? These are just to supplement my MH lights. I have 2 250w MH now with 4 55w PC's and I am looking to possibly replace the 4 PC's with T5's....

Do you think its worth doing or should I stay with what I have?

Thanks!

 

As a supplement, PC might be OK. T5 is going to give you more PAR for the wattage, though. T5 also has a much better selection of bulbs from different manufacturers.

 

So lets say on the front side of my DIY fixture I have 2 55w PC's now...and on the back I have 2 55w PC's.

If I were to swap the 2 55w PC's with 1 54w T5....thats a better light setup? Even though I am dropping watts?

 

Yeah, the T5 will give you a higher amount of light per watt (with at least decent bulbs), and the better selection of bulbs to choose from.

 

Is a T5 Universe or Advance ballast a good one to drive the T5 bulbs? can that ballast drive 2 bulbs and does it overdrive them at all?

 

I don't know about those ballasts, so I can't say.

I can tell you that overdriving will decrease the lifespan of the bulbs significantly. The bulbs will also shift their spectrum while overdriven.

 

I am asking b/c I can get that ballast in a trade for a frag and want to make sure its cool....I am going to try to get more info on it, when I do I will post it.

Thanks for your help....K+