What are CFL and what the hell are they used for and what do they accomplish???

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PuFf ThE mAgIc DrAgOn

CFL's are compact fluorescent lights. They are fluorescent lights, but they screw into your normal everyday light socket. They use less wattage than incandescent lights, but produce light that plants can absorb and use for photosynthesis. They are a cheap alternative to metal halide and high pressure sodium plants. They are great for the beginning or novice grower, but after your first grow you'll desire an upgrade.

high pressure sodium lamps, that is. They are still considered HID (high intensity discharge) lamps.

Walmart.com - Always Low Prices! - GE Energy Smart CFL Light Bulb: 42 Watt (150W Equiv) 2-Pk

I've got a butt-ton of these if somebody wants to buy them in 6-7 weeks

i already have a hps light, i was just unsure of the term cfl. i heard those were not worth a damn for this use.

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PuFf ThE mAgIc DrAgOn

You are doing better than I at this point! They work, but just not as well as your other hid lamps. It takes a lot of 'em, and a lot of constant adjustments. This is fine with me at this point since I suffer from obsessive compulsive disorder. I also suffer from obsessive compulsive disorder. I adjust my lights several times per day, but I do suffer from obsessive compulsive disorder.

so you suffer from obsessive compulsive disorder..Ok well if my hps light goes bad and i dont have the 150 dollars to get one some cfl will get me by for a bit??

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PuFf ThE mAgIc DrAgOn

sorry to just drop in, but out of finacial curiosity, could cfl's take the place of a hps setup in all stages of growth?

Yes, in the same way that a skateboard could get you to work. Just not as efficiently and not with the results you might desire.

ok, cuz i am useing 4ft flourecents now and i know that wont work for flowering and im trying to find a cheap alternitive to the hps