OK, I admit it - I'm cheap. I bought a 1000W ballast and growlight hood from StealItBack.com only to find that there appears to be something wrong with the ballast. It comes on and slowly brightens to a nice intense light (just like the 400W lights I have). Then, however, it fades to nothing - pauses for a few minutes and then starts all over. It appears that the cappacitor is charging/discharging and recharging, etc. I don't think it is supposed to work this way, but I'm not sure what the problem is, if it correctable or if I'm just out the $35. Anyone with experience with Metal Halide lights, please chime in....

Jeff Isom
Cleveland, OH / Sunset Zone 39

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On 4 Oct 2004 at 8:11, Isom, Jeff (EM, PTL) wrote:

OK, I admit it - I'm cheap. I bought a 1000W ballast and
growlight hood from StealItBack.com only to find that there
appears to be something wrong with the ballast. It comes on
and slowly brightens to a nice intense light (just like the
400W lights I have). Then, however, it fades to nothing -
pauses for a few minutes and then starts all over. It
appears that the cappacitor is charging/discharging and
recharging, etc. I don't think it is supposed to work this
way, but I'm not sure what the problem is, if it correctable
or if I'm just out the $35. Anyone with experience with
Metal Halide lights, please chime in....

I know nothing about ballasts and even less about lights for
indoor trees, but I have been told that halide lights are MUCH
too hot for plant lights. (As well as being a bit dangerous
around kids.)

Jim Lewis - - Tallahassee, FL - Bonsaiests
are like genealogists: We know our roots!

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++++Sponsored, in part, by Boon Manakitivipart++++
************************************************** ******************************
-- The IBC HOME PAGE & FAQ: http://www.internetbonsaiclub.org/ --
+++++ Questions? Help? e-mail +++++