T8 Fluorescents

[FreeMan]

Hey All

I've been gifted a bunch of T8 fluorescent ballasts and fittings and was wondering if they are worth putting into action in my veg area as I'm desperately in need of some light for my mothers. I'd rather not have to buy more control gear if I can make use of these. They only really have to keep the mothers going and healthy, I could always use some more intensive lighting as and when cuttings are needed.

I have read the T5vsT8 threads which mainly discuss the difference between the two, but I have no experience with T5 either so I don't really have a base for comparison.

The ballasts manage 58w tubes and the fittings are 5 feet. I was thinking of using around 250-300 watts total.

Any sharing of thoughts, knowledge and experiences greatly appreciated

 

[shawkmon]

t8s rock for veg, got to love free shit, hook it up and grow em hard

 

[boaboi86]

thats what im using for my mothers clones and even supplemental lights to my hps in the flower room. It really helps alot IMO.

 

[gomer]

T5-HOs or PLL's might be more efficient but I use 4 foot T8s because of the purchase cost savings. If you have free ones available that is a great deal. I think they do the job for veg.. I mix CFLs and T8s for veg..

Are you planning on using 40w tubes? Are those Bi-pin tubes? I'm not well acquainted with 5 foot tubes.

 

[FreeMan]

Thanks for the advice guys, I needed some reassurance.

The 5ft tubes are bi-pin, larger distance between pins than T5 I think. I was planning on using around 5 or 6 of something like this --> http://www.bltdirect.co.uk/item987.htm

Any advice?

 

[gomer]

Thanks for the reply and the link. I'm no lighting expert but I don't think that size is used in the US very often. Even searching with the product number, the supplier I generally go through did not find an equivalent bulb. 58 watts seems more than average for the T8 length more like a High Output.

If you have a choice try to get a daylight bulb / 6500K or in that area.

 

[FreeMan]

Thanks for the reply and the link. I'm no lighting expert but I don't think that size is used in the US very often. Even searching with the product number, the supplier I generally go through did not find an equivalent bulb. 58 watts seems more than average for the T8 length more like a High Output.

If you have a choice try to get a daylight bulb / 6500K or in that area.

Just thought I'd update you on this Gomer... the tubes are in and they are running sweet! 58w, 6500k 5ft x 4. Managed to pick up 6 tubes for less than £20. The girls have been praying since the switch on, thanks again for your help. Really glad I got these in action now instead of spending more on the T5s.

 

[gomer]

Thanks for the update. Good to hear you have those 5 footers running.

 

[globel]

I put T-8's over my clones ... there sweet.