Difference between magnetic and digital ballasts?

livesoul

Well-Known Member
Hey I recently heard about digital ballasts. I'm told they are more energy efficient and the bulb lights up much faster than the normal magnetic ballasts. Does someone know what the differences are? Pros, cons?
 

FreNzyBud

Active Member
Hey..
I have just recieved my Sonlight Electronic ballast and Sylvania 150 w bulb. I only grow 2 plants in hydroponics in a small space.

The ballast does light the bulb up very quickly, about 45-60 second to full strength.
The actual power-consumption for the ballast is 158 watts wich is not bad.
Its is advertised to be 20-30% more energy efficient and the bulb will last 12-14 months before massive loss of lumens.

+absolutely no noice at all, it does'nt buzz like a magnetic ballast!

I'd have to say, im diggin' it!!
 

DecimateForce

Active Member
I switched over from magnetic ballasts a long time ago. The advantages are great. They do save a lot of energy. It's easy to tell because they don't heat up nearly as hot as magnetic ones. Extra heat basically means wasted electricity. You can practically rest your hand on an electronic ballast without getting burned. Also, if you have your ballast in the same room as your grow and are running and A/C, then the A/C doesn't have to run nearly as hard, again saving energy. My bill is at least $300-400 cheaper than others running the same wattage.
 
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