250w in a 175w

[jgarey]

This seems like an odd question... but can i run a 250w m/h in a 175w socket?


Thanks!

 

[sir_dudeguy]

unless the socket says you can run it on both, i would not do it. Asking for trouble imo, specially w/those powerful halides.

 

[bertoni]

The socket might be compatible. I think they are the same size, but the ballast won't be, and the rest of the fixture might be a problem, too.

 

[Frick-n-Frags]

in a word: NO

 

[AZDesertRat]

NO, with MH, ballasts and bulbs must be matched.

 

[Young Frankenstein]

The operating voltage of MH bulbs varies with their wattage, also magnetic ballasts use a current limiting capacitor to avoid bulb burnout. So even if the light bulb socket fits the bulb you can't power a 175w with a 250w ballast. Be careful with these bulbs if they get too hot the outer shield will break and can start a fire or emit high levels of radion to your tank.