How long do Aerogarden CFLs last?

I know the manufacturer says 6 months, but has anyone continued to get good results by keeping them longer, even until they expire?

Thanks

serengetiuk said:

I know the manufacturer says 6 months, but has anyone continued to get good results by keeping them longer, even until they expire?

Thanks

Click to expand...

No. I know one guy who tried to get a year out of them but you could see the difference. I think they're right about changing them at six months but there are ways to get around it and stretch out the six months. If you have a good light meter you can actually measure the difference and they are less intense after six months of continuous service. I still have the old hood with two round lamps and light stand that came with my A/G originally and for germination and seedlings it's sufficient, but for vegging and flowering you do want the three lamp hood and lights so I have been known to switch them at that point. I'm just not sure it's worth the effort. If you're super efficient you can get two crops out of those three lamps. What I'm looking for now is another source for the lamps, just in case.