When to replace a bulb for HID.
I will test the bulb with phone and lux test program which is free.
There are several programs at google play.
A new bulb , I test it first and write down what results I have. Maybe after 3 months or 6 months I want to test or you see that something is different ?
The program' s goes up to 25765 lux.
I take 30 cm or 50cm , important same reflector , same distance etc..... And of course look at the tube or what you using and clean it too!
When 660w HPS ex . 23000 lux ;600w 20000 lux;400w 14000 lux.
How good theese are doesn't matter , I know the equipment and I
want to know when the bulb loose 5% or 15 % etc .. when to replace as you look if they are darker etc....
Happy growing! :)
Good info . When to replace ? The light test is a good tool as others.
I do it probably more often that I should , but if I run with a bad for 2 months , what will be the price of that?
No I change (2 ) times a year. At least. Maybe three flowering times and nr four 660w as an example. 4000-6000 hours. How long time , that is different depending on energy/heat/cost/harvest......
Then of course if I know I may have to adjust dim setting more often or something else , I use an older bulb ( over 6 months of use ).
Happy Growing :)