Lumitek digital dimmable ballast

[GenghisKrhan]

Hey all. New to the forum. I just got the 600w digital lumitek ballast which features a dimmable option. Does anyone know if it stresses the bulb to change the wattage while the lamp is on?

 

[JAHGYDI]

read the directions thar came with ballast

 

[FLB]

they say it can reduce the life of the bulb. They also say don't adjust the knob more than every 10 minutes

 

[motta-tokka]

I have one and it says to leave the power in any setting for at least 30 minutes before switching. Have not had a problem so far. Switch away

 

[what what]

Does anyone know if it stresses the bulb to change the wattage while the lamp is on?

You should only change the percentage settings while the lamp is off!

 

[motta-tokka]

I don't remember reading that part. Are you sure or is that just your suggestion? I have switched on and off without a hitch so far.

 

[LEBDOG]

reckless abandon - no problems for me...

I have turned the switch with reckless abandon and had no problems for about a year now on one bulb still blowing up my plants. Just my 2 cents...

 

[motta-tokka]

Exactly. Less guesses and more experience pls. Funny when people comment on my grow without understanding how things work ;)

 

[dojoohno]

Why would you want to dim it? Don't you want all the light you can get?

 

[LEBDOG]

Why would you want to dim it? Don't you want all the light you can get?

Plants can't take 1000W at their first exposure without stressing. Most experienced users with a digital ballast would turn the light down and run it at 50% for a day, then 75%, then 100%.

Additionally, I turn lights down for photographs.

There are many other reasons to turn a light down at times. Say you have a heat issue and want to keep your plants on schedule, while you clean and/or fix your air conditioner.

 

[paulycali]

For the first time use i like to strart it on low and then gradually crank it up to max. And use super lumens during last week of flowering. Hurts the bulbs life a little bit

 

[SSHZ]

The direction manual that comes with the Lumatek states not to change the knob while the light is on............ there is a reason they say that- it wears the bulb out quicker. Love these new ballasts!

 

[Xceptional]

why would you ever switch it that often. i switch it ONE time on my 1k lumatek's and that's when i first bring new cuts in the room i raise lights and dim them to not stress them and to let them get use to the light. after a day or two i crank them back up and leave them at "super lumen" until i introduce more new cuts...

 

[GenghisKrhan]

appreciate it. I worked my clones up to the 600 setting. it's nice for acclimating your clippings