Dumb Lighting Question

[sacramonel]

I have a feeling the answer to this is no, but since I have no electrical knowledge whatsoever I thought it best to ask. I have 2 150 halides. If I simply made a change to the ballast and changed the bulb, would I be able to upgrade the unit to a 250?

 

[Ludwig Venter]

There ye are... see... no question is ever dumb... My answer might be, but in my thinking, you'd have to change the starter as well??? The Ballast is after all the watt consumer, so if it is strong enough, and you do not upgrade to the extent that thicker feed cables is required.... Can't see why not... but rather let the experts in..... I'm only bumping for you.....

 

[SkiFletch]

9 times out of 10, wiring for a 150watt bulb is sufficeint for a 250watt. As you've discovered, you must replace both ballast and bulb though

 

[andywg]

Also, depending on the type, you may have to change the reflector unit and bulb holder.

In Double ended MH the 250W bulbs are a different size and set up to the 150W.

 

[sacramonel]

Also, depending on the type, you may have to change the reflector unit and bulb holder.

In Double ended MH the 250W bulbs are a different size and set up to the 150W.

Excellent. So instead of having to buy a whole new system, I can use the one I have an change the bulb and ballast. That should save me hundreds of dollars.

I currently have the Current USA SunPod PowerPaq HQI Lamp. I was thinking of upgrading to a Icecap 250 ballast. Since the lamp i currently have only has one ballast, would I only need one 250? Or would I need two to power the two lamps. If it is the latter how would I connect the two to the lamp?

 

[SkiFletch]

Yeah, you'd need twin ballasts. As Andy mentioned though, check bulb lengths first to make SURE they'll fit in your socket. Double ended's are a little trickier than single ended's that way.