for those with 2 MH do you have 2 ballasts or one?

[gfk]

Im not too sure how to piece together a MH system from scratch...

i wanted to get a retrofit kit from Hellolights.com

but i think im gonna go with 2 175 watters.

should i buy 2 175 retrofit kits or is there somewhere that sells a dual MH retrofit kit that would be better?

 

[elephen]

I run a dual 250w SLS BW7 HQI ballast. So basically 1 box with 2 ballats inside.

 

[fishman805]

I run 3 150watt each with their own ballasts..... I think it's safer that way electrically..

Bob

 

[Aquaduck]

The dual PFO ballasts have separate cords and switches for each lamps. It's basically two ballasts inside one big heavy box. I prefer them like this but you may want separate ones if you have limited space.

 

[Wiskey]

I have 2 seperate balasts, the way I have it figured is this, if I have to send back one balast for repairs, at least I can use the other light until it comes back.

HTH,
Whiskey

 

[Ti]

i recommend the dual PFO.

 

[lemonhead]

i have the pfo dual 400w ballast. very nice, but heavy.

 

[Gobie]

You need a ballast for each light. 3 ballast 3 lights 2 ballasts 2 lights. You can get each ballast at an electrical supply for 40 to 50 dollars. Then all you need is, wire nuts, grommets, sockets, switches, a box to mount them in and wire, O yea and tools. You also need to be able to reed a schematic. I made my own 4x175 watt light set up this way and total cost was under $300.00.

 

[VaderWS6]

I have PFO dual 250watt HQI ballast that I run my SE Iwasakis with. I used to have the standard PFO, but the HQI is the only way to go! :rollface:

 

[j0tca]

One ballast per bulb here on 2X250W setup. I use One ballast for all my VHOs though.

 

[jgoodrich71]

I have one ballast per bulb. I use and recommend the Icecap ballsast. Very easy to hook up, light weight, and less electricity usage.

 

[MONK_11]

I have one ballast for each light in case one of them fails. That way i can replace or get it repaired and the tank won't be without light

 

[SDguy]

I agree...if a ballast needs servicing, better to have one still running. And cheaper to ship

I will be using two Icecap electronics for two 250 DE lights.