How cool are CFLs? Do I need NO VENTING???

Originally Posted by pftek

I've been really thinking of going CFLs over the heat like MH and HPS. Is there noticable heat difference? Do I need to VENT heat away from CFLs? I'm looking at 600 watts of power. So i'll have like 15 - 42 watt bulbs.

yes you will need venting and if your dumping a grip of money on 15 42watt bulbs... might as well get a HPS and a vent system cause it will cost the same amount..

Depends on the size of your grow area. They will still raise the ambient temperatures if you are growing in a tent type set up (especially with that many). That said, they can be placed much closer to the plants because each bulb isn't very hot, but yes, generally CFLs run cooler than MH/HPS.

Personally, I think most people would agree that CFLs are better suited for smaller grows. If you are planning on running 600 watts in lighting, you'll get more lumens out of the equivalent MH/HPS setup for the watts.

Originally Posted by InsaneInTheBrain

Depends on the size of your grow area. They will still raise the ambient temperatures if you are growing in a tent type set up (especially with that many). That said, they can be placed much closer to the plants because each bulb isn't very hot, but yes, generally CFLs run cooler than MH/HPS.

Personally, I think most people would agree that CFLs are better suited for smaller grows. If you are planning on running 600 watts in lighting, you'll get more lumens out of the equivalent MH/HPS setup for the watts.

yeah i know that. but then i have to run a fan or two to suck out the heat which is additionally wattage I can put onto lights. Also, I'm paranoid. And wonder if CFL can be detected by FLIR systems.