Lumatek... worth the money

[newborne]

Does anyone know of a cheaper electronic ballast similar to the lumatek that they had success with. I was wondering with lumatek, if your just payin for the name. I know i want something that can dim like lumatek. One other thing if u dim your bulbs by 50% how much longer will the bulb last. I mean i think the bulb would last twice but i wasn't sure. Thanks

 

[qupee]

I don't think the bulbs will last any longer.

I've seen these Solis Tek ballasts recently. Unfortunately, I don't have any experience with them, but they look pretty nice.

 

[dansbuds]

better grow hydro's prices are reasonable for Lumiteks , thats where i get mine . http://www.bghydro.com/BGH/itemdesc.asp?ic=HLBADILT04360&eq=&Tp=

 

[rrog]

Lamps in the dim mode may or may not produce the correct light spectrum. There are differing opinions within the ballast / lamp manufacturing community. Some also feel that running a dimmed lamp may decrease the lifespan. There's a real lack of info on these dimable ballasts.

 

[limegreensuit]

y'get whatcha pay for.

 

[Granger2]

Newborn,
Lumatek prices are quite reasonable and competitive if you go to the right places, such as bettergrohydro and Big Tomato [also check lumatek bulb prices while there].

There are other good ballasts out there, but none better than lumatek. Check bettergro's info about electronic ballasts. With Lumatek I don't think you're just paying for the name.

Another thing I am quite leary of, is cut price ballasts made in China. My guess is that they vary from brand to brand, but I don't want one because of the fire hazard factor. Good luck. -granger