I'm researching techniques about growing, and I think lighting will be a large issue for me, mainly because of my budget.

I was thinking about having a 400W HPS for vegging, along with supplemental full spectrum CFLs for flowering.

HPS grow light kits go for $180+ for the 400W set up, I was curious to know: without any wiring experience, how would one go about making a HPS system?

Is it as easy as purchasing a ballast, or what else is required? Could I get away with something like this: HydroWarehouse Online Hydroponic Superstore for a HPS system?

Thanks for your time!

Greetings, I kinda feel if you gotta ask, its out of your league. Mainly in this instance especially, as we are talking about electric, and one mistake could end it all. You can however pick up a really nice 430 watt HPS, that will do vegging and flowering for about $119.00

This ballast kit is about $55.00 but by the time you've built it, and bought everything else needed, I dont see where you would have saved any money?
In fact it might be more.

Peace

That makes sense. How much would I expect to pay for a 400W lamp? I'm looking at a 250W MH for $160 (22k lumens). Would that be sufficient for a medium-sized closet?

Yes, given the consequences if you make a mistake, purchasing a completed system is worth the extra money in piece of mind. If you cannot afford a completed system now, best to wait and save.

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Our vibrations were getting nasty. But why? Was there no communication in this car? Had we deteriorated to the level of dumb beasts?

Dude, this 430 watt system is ONLY $119.00
Rethink where yr buying from.
What size is your closet, and how many plants do you want to grow?
Peace
High Tech Garden Supply

You can get 400w HPS with spectrum enhanced bulbs for as low as $120. Everyone usually recommeds High Tech Garden Supply.

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Our vibrations were getting nasty. But why? Was there no communication in this car? Had we deteriorated to the level of dumb beasts?

Oh crap. That's dirt cheap. 55k lumens, damn. Thanks Another little question, how do I calculate how much this would cost me per mo. on electric? Is there a formula or something?

My closet is 5 feet wide & 2 ft. deep. I plan to grow 4 or 5 at a time

There are a ton of posts on that. Long story short, it is not much at all for a 400w.

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Our vibrations were getting nasty. But why? Was there no communication in this car? Had we deteriorated to the level of dumb beasts?

I usually have read $20 - $30 increase from your previous bill.

chunck read the post about security hps/mh lighting by doobsday u can purchase a 150watt hps light at lowes/home depot and all u gotta do is simply rewireing