This is the popular air cooled light combo. It consists of one lamp, one matched reflector (or hood) and one matched ballast. All components (and units) are safety certified. (WEEE)

A ballast provides circuitry to start and operate high powered lighting. The ballast is quite heavy because it contains a transformer. The ballast is connected to the mains electrical supply and should be located away from potential flooding and spillage, either off the floor, or outside the growroom. The reflector is typically suspended from the ceiling using chain secured with hook plates. (The use of string to suspend lighting is expressly not recommended because the lighting may heat and damage to string. If the string breaks, this may cause damage to the reflector, lamp, cabling, hydroponic system and your plants. Additionally, damage to the lamp may cause gas to escape and may cause you plants to absorb a high dose of sodium, mercury, or whatever ionised gas is used in the lamp.) The cable from the reflector is connected to the ballast and the lamp is inserted in the reflector.

Once started, lighting should not be switched off immediately after testing, but should be allowed to warm first. A humming noise from the ballast is normal operation during starting. A faint humming noise is normal during use, although a loud humming noise from the ballast may indicate damage to the ballast due to use with mis-matched lamps. Only use approved lamps with your ballast. Whenever possible, Esoteric Hydroponic will supply ballasts that interoperate with our entire range of High Pressure Sodium [HPS] and Metal Halide [MH] lamps of the same wattage. The ability to switch lamps aids the simulation of harvest time and therefore improves the taste and maturity of many plant species. Unfortunately, ballasts obtained from other suppliers do not always have this ability. Many people use only High Pressure Sodium [HPS] lamps, although it is useful to keep your options open.

Most importantly, re-igniting a lamp that has not been given 15 minutes or more to cool may cause damage to the lamp and, in turn, the ballast. In extreme cases, inappropriate operation may cause the lamp to explode in the growroom. Lamps can also become damaged due to power spikes from the electricity supply. In the unlikely event that this is a re-orruring problem, spike and surge suppression circuitry can be obtained.

It should be noted that lamps (not ballasts and reflectors) are to be considered as consumables. All lamps have a warranty covering defective construction and damage during delivery, but no more. Ballasts, reflectors and cabling are subject to an extended guarantee.

Lamps depreciate in brightness over time. For example of this, observe the brightness of old lamps in sodium street lights. There comes a time when operating an old lamp becomes un-economic and therefore replacing lamps every 9-12 months can save you money.

A Note About Kettle [Euro] Connectors

Kettle leads are available in two types: 5A leads and 13A leads. 13A leads have notched connectors to ensure that the lower current carrying 5A leads cannot be inserted. Do not ignore this safety feature - use the leads supplied or compatible and safety certified leads only. Computer leads (and the lead shown in the picture) are typically 5A and denoted by black leads and connectors. 13A leads are usually lighter in colour. Additionally, Euro power connectors should always be wired so that live power is encased in a plug and never the exposed prongs of a socket. Furthermore, for safety, such connectors should never be cascaded, which is why some computer screens have to be switched separately. Finally, please select fuses accordingly, although some ballasts may require "slow start" fuses to prevent the initial ignition blowing the fuse (and possibly your lamp). If in doubt, please contact Esoteric Hydroponics, or more preferably, a qualified electrician.

See Also

• 1000W air cooled lighting - same as here, but brighter for higher yields. Strong light - strongly recommended.
• Example system: two air cooled lights with ballasts and a fan.