How do I determine my ballast type?

Discussion in 'Metal Halide Aquarium Lighting' started by bluetang08, Aug 7, 2010.

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  1. bluetang08

    bluetang08 Purple Spiny Lobster

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    Ok so I know this is kinda a noob question but I can't figure out what my ballast type is exactly and I know this is a crucial element to determining the best bulbs to get for my MH. The retrokit is a Hamilton 250w Mogul Base, there is a single bulb and a dual bulb set up (3 bulbs, 2 ballasts). I purchased this kit from saltycritter.com not sure how to post a link (Im comp illiterate) but its pretty easy to find.
    http://www.saltycritter.com/lighting/metal-halide-ballast-hamilton.htm
    (figured it out)
     
  2. Click Here!

  3. sostoudt

    sostoudt Giant Squid

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    look at your ballast for any writing, type that writing in google. TADA!


    if there is no writing post a picture of it and hope you get lucky.
     
  4. bluetang08

    bluetang08 Purple Spiny Lobster

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    So what bulbs would work best here?
     
  5. GuitarMan89

    GuitarMan89 Giant Squid

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    What ballast did you determine you have?
     
  6. bluetang08

    bluetang08 Purple Spiny Lobster

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    The one I posted a link to
     
  7. coraladdict

    coraladdict Plankton

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    Hello. I had the same problem not being sure what my ballast was because I bought the tank used and could not find any writing on it. (it had 2 175W MH bulbs when I bought it). I called Marine Depot, who I order from online all the time Aquarium Pet Fish Supplies, Tank Accessories, Products & Equipment. they told me which bulbs will work with basically any ballast and were VERY helpful. Still don't know what my ballast is, but I have MH bulbs that my coral (soft and LPS) love.