I'm currently using CFLs on my seedlings as they can get real close to them without being too hot so they don't stretch. The CFLs are sufficient for the light needs of seedlings until they're a couple of weeks old. Then if you want something to be proud of then you want to stick them under some better lights. Once my seedlings get big enough I'm going to stick a 400w HPS in my closet (2.5 x 3.5 area). A 250w is enough for your space to get some decent results.

I cant find a good thread to post this question in and this one is the closest i haev found to my problem...
I am using a 400W MH light and am currently in my veg phase. this is my first grow and im not sure exactly how far away the bulb should be from the plants. Other people have said that if you put your hand under it and its too hot then its too close, but i want to know if anyone who has used this light before has a better idea because im pretty far away to the point where i feel no heat at all and i think i could be closer but dont want to burn the plants. Anyone able to help?
Thanks

insidesun.comThey have new and rebuilt ballast setups 250W $90.00,might be something to look at

Hey how often should I change my bulb?

That is where I got my setup from. I went with their 400w mh/hps system it was $200 shipped. They were out of the standard MH buld so they sent me an upgraded one free of charge.

Happy Growing to you.

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4 Sensi Star 1 mendo purp 1 bagseed= success hopefully http://www.rollitup.org/general-mari...r-growing.html

I am in the same place you are right now to a T. I have mine about 15in away and it does not feel very hot at all. I got some info from a member here on RIU and he said maybe around 10-12in. What I am doing is putting it about 12in above the canopy and watching for heat stress. (tips of the leaves will start to curl up) I can't seem to find a pic of heat stress.

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4 Sensi Star 1 mendo purp 1 bagseed= success hopefully http://www.rollitup.org/general-mari...r-growing.html