halide lights

Discussion in 'Metal Halide Aquarium Lighting' started by greg63054, May 30, 2009.

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  1. greg63054

    greg63054 Plankton

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    May 24, 2009
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    If your system is 250 watts can you put in 175 watts.
     
    greg63054, May 30, 2009
    greg63054, May 30, 2009
    #1

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  2. jonjonwells

    jonjonwells Great Blue Whale

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    Kinda. For Mogul bases (the screw in type). 175, 250, 400 all have the same size base. However. The ballast will only run a single rating of bulb. To downgrade from a 250 to a 175, you will need a new ballast rated for the 175.

    Might I ask why you are wanting to downgrade?
     
    jonjonwells, May 30, 2009
    jonjonwells, May 30, 2009
    #2
  3. ReefSparky

    ReefSparky Super Moderator

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    The short answer is yes. From what I've read you can run both HQI or mogul type bulbs in a ballast designed for a higher wattage bulb. Be warned that performance will be flaky, heat will run higher than acceptable for bases and relectors, color temperature will be innacurate, and lamp life will be greatly shortened. IMO there is no reason to risk it, including the "it's all I've got" scenario. Bulbs to match the ballast is always the best and safest route.
     
    ReefSparky, May 30, 2009
    ReefSparky, May 30, 2009
    #3