Trying to save some $$. Not sure if i should buy (4) 1k budget ballasts or build my own. I have a high mechanical aptitude so i am sure i can figure out how to build them with a good link on how to do it. There has to be a cheaper option than the kits since there only about $10 less than a ballast. Any help would be much appreciated. Thanks
build a ballast or buy budget ballast?
- Thread starter sci-fi
- Start date
build a ballast to what extent? I think the kit is your best option. HTG has good prices. I also bought some bobo ballasts from a store where it was an open ballast. all the parts were mounted on a frame with a metal handle. i doubt you can source all the parts individually cheaper
R
rick shaw
Check CL I see great deals every day.
FistedSister
Active member
i buy quality used items on craigs, i'd trust a used ballast more than one i made myself (low aptitude)
I got a nice mag 400 to go with my 600 off of craigslist ,came with a horti eye bulb too ,for $100 .Im sold on craigslist....
Where i live CL is not an option. Not to many people selling grow gear. Honestly i be freaked out to buy off somebody i dont know. Be a different story if i was somewhere like Cali.
I do like the idea of having one large box to hold all ballasts mabey next to the subpanel. Does the ignitor need to be next to the ballast? How far can it be from the lamp? Thanks for the ideas guys
I do like the idea of having one large box to hold all ballasts mabey next to the subpanel. Does the ignitor need to be next to the ballast? How far can it be from the lamp? Thanks for the ideas guys
Saran
Active member
I always used to build my own ballast you can order the kit online or most large electrical supply houses will stock them you will need to specify MH or HPS I just mount the components and a junction box to a length of 2x12 board you could put a metal plate over the board if your a worry wart .
That being said for $179 I now use a Lumatek 600w Ballast this ballast will fire either a MH or HPS and is switchable from 340-400-600+Super Lumen it will run on 120v or 240v,, I consider this ballast a true advancement it lighting technology and would never go back to a core and coil . I luv it .
That being said for $179 I now use a Lumatek 600w Ballast this ballast will fire either a MH or HPS and is switchable from 340-400-600+Super Lumen it will run on 120v or 240v,, I consider this ballast a true advancement it lighting technology and would never go back to a core and coil . I luv it .
Where i live CL is not an option. Not to many people selling grow gear. Honestly i be freaked out to buy off somebody i dont know. Be a different story if i was somewhere like Cali.
I do like the idea of having one large box to hold all ballasts mabey next to the subpanel. Does the ignitor need to be next to the ballast? How far can it be from the lamp? Thanks for the ideas guys
The ignitor doesnt have to be near the ballast. I mount my ignitors on the hood. They shouldnt be more than about 15 feet from the lamp
Awsome!! Thanks for the info. I have always hated having Ballasts in my grow room. I'm kinda O.C.D and i never can find a place where they "fit" LOL.
