Electronic HQI MH Ballasts

[reefkeep1]

Can someone tell me the difference between an electronic balast (E-balast) and a "standard" balast for an HQI MH lamp? Advantages/disadvantages?

 

[ChrisRD]

The magnetic HQI ballast will run the lamps brighter, but it will also draw more power. Also, they're larger, heavier and run hotter than the electronic ballasts. The electronic ballasts are compact, light and draw less power, but they don't run the lamps as bright. There have been some claims by at least one manufacturer that electronic halide ballasts will give better lamp life and more consistent brightness levels throughout the life of the lamp, but I've not seen any test data to confirm or refute that so far.

Also, some people mistakenly believe that the electronic ballasts are more efficient, but that's not necessarily true. If you look at Sanjay's work, it depends on the specific lamp/ballast combination. Sometimes the magnetic HQIs are drawing a lot more power, but they're producing an even greater increase in light (ie. more light per actual watt consumed).

HTH

 

[Anonymous]

Good information to know Chris. Thank you!

 

[Mihai]

During my research it also seemed that the magnetic ones are more reliable than the electronic ones (not a scientific study, just oppinions on the boards and at the LFS). I went with the magnetic ones (2x250W PFO) and for now, knock on wood, no problems.

M.

 

[DK]

The magnetic ballast will generate much more heat. In the summer, this could be a significant issue.

 

[reefkeep1]

Thanks for the info.

 

[Mihai]

The magnetic ballast will generate much more heat. In the summer, this could be a significant issue.

Sure, but in the winter it can be a good thing. They may even out in the end.

M.

 

[DK]

Ill take the cost (and room comfort) of running a heater over running a chiller...even though I have both!!

 

[ChrisRD]

With remote ballasts, the heat thing is not really an issue for me...

 

[DK]

But will it be for reefkeep1?

It actually is an issue for me since my reef room faces west (with a river view & no shade) and the PM sun in the summer really puts pressure on the AC. I have central, a room a/c and a chiller in the basement....this works! When I used fans the room would get over 85 and that isn't comfortable for viewing so adding the chiller made all the difference.

If you can keep the ballast remote in a different room then I would go for the most efficient ballast.

 

[ChrisRD]

Ah, yeah I was thinking in terms of light fixture/tank temps, not really room temps (ie. built-in vs. remote ballasts). I agree, the magnetics do put some heat in the room...