MH Ballasts

[cotter4601]

I read the FAQ, but couldn't find the answer I needed.

I went to a new LFS today and he was using two 175watt metal halide ballasts that he got from a local electrical store. What is the difference between these and the ones at the LFS or online fish stores. There is quite a bit of price difference so before I make a purchase I need to know the difference. Anyone use the these?

 

[bertoni]

Ballasts can vary in their efficiency. I suppose you could try them and see how you like the results. I'd be very careful that the ballast type was a match for the bulbs, though.

 

[cotter4601]

What happens if they aren't a match. Just how do you match them?

 

[bertoni]

There are ANSI standards for the ballasts and bulbs. The wrong ballast could blow a bulb and start a fire, I would guess.

 

[cotter4601]

Does anyone know the actual differences of the two ballasts?