Updating Grow Lamp

[dalvis]

Old Light:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07312WKX2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_Rr1aFbSCJXSZQ

New Light:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07YWYH439/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_xt1aFbSRDA93F

(sorry don’t know how to do links)

First time grower. Picked out my tent and lights from a materials list on a website based on my grow goals and space allowed. Did some research prior to purchase but I feel like I know a lot more now.

Started under CFL for germination and went to 150W LED for start of veg and plants are doing great. However from doing more research and particularly from reading a pretty active thread on this forum, I decided that I needed to upgrade if I want my yields to be maximized for my small (2x2x4) grow space.

Went with the ViparSpectra 600W dimmable LED as the company seems to have a great reputation in the growing community and 600W seems like more than enough for my needs. Thought about opting for the 1000W model that allowed for dimming of veg and bloom cycles but was afraid that might be too much light for me and the dimming feature might add another complication for a new grower like myself.

I’m worried that even 600W might be a little too much light as they recommend 18” between light and plant, but I’m hoping that the dimmable option on this light will allow me to compensate for when the plants get too tall.

Anyways if I can get some thought or insight to this decision I would greatly appreciate it.

[Gingerbeard]

Hey dalvis I have a 2x3x4 with a 350w Viparspectra. Heat wasn't much of an issue with simple ventillation.
I ran a 600w, for a day, that just about cooked my plants with flaps open and extra fans blowing. My opinion, nothing higher than 450w in your small space, just because of heat.
My calculations, and a few grows, showed me I can get 24" plants in a 4-1/2' tall tent. Your tent would be in the 18" range. With some LST, you can add a few horizontal inches to the vertical colas.

[dalvis]

Okay. That’s exactly what I’m looking for. Would you say this 600W model would work if I only ran it at 75% (manufacturer claims linear dimming)? The reason that I ask is because the 300W and 450W models are more expensive right now for whatever reason.

[Gingerbeard]

Can't answer the 75% question for LED's but I know my 360 doesn't cool when I go down to 50%. If you plan on always running at 75%, you're wasting 25% of the light. I say go for the 450.

[dalvis]

Ended up going with this one. The other one was not UL certified and this one is. Not sure if the veg and bloom switches are a gimmick but if they do work that will be handy. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015FLSOCE..._V75aFbYCNREMB

[Gingerbeard]

Looks like a good one dalvis . About the veg and bloom switches. Most folks I've read say they leave them on at the same time unless there is a heat issue. It's 'old' technology, as your first choice with the dimmer switch is considered 'newest'.

I haven't read all your posts. You should know, the other GWEenies and I, really like weed and bud porn.