need this question answered quick.

[playa0069u]

k I am so confused. the bulb I have in my light is a power compat bulb k well the fixture says use only 55 watt bulbs. K well the light bulb says ON IT 65WATT Square Pin... AND IT HAS STRAIGHT PINS! like this.... not like this :: so obvisously it is straight pin, but do I order a 65watt or a 55 watt. it also says actinic 03blue 50/50 10k. but itis really blue. is the 420nm still really blue like that?

 

[playa0069u]

so I guess all I need to know is the fixture says 55 watt and has straight pins on it.. even thought the bulb says square pin, it has straight pins, so im assuming I should get a stright pin but should I get a 55 watt or 65 watt.

 

[playa0069u]

the current bulb is 65 watts but the fixture says 55 watts only

 

[BlitzK]

did you order generic (ebay) bulbs?

...and I've used 65 in a 55 and 55 in a 65, no ill effects

 

[playa0069u]

yes lol he is just waiting for me to say 65 or 55. so i can get another 65 watt then?

 

[hexedagain]

They will both work on either ballast. Heres the deal, the 55w will burn out quicker on a 65w ballast , as opposed to a 55w ballast. The 65 will burn the 55w bulb, but it is hotter than the 55 is supposed to burn. And vica-versa. The 55w ballast will burn the 65w bulb, but it is burning it cooler than it should, and will not last as long.
Bottom line is you will get longer and better light from the correct wattage bulb matched to the ballast.
Read the ballast if you can access it, do not just go on what the sticker or plate says on the fixture.

 

[playa0069u]

k cool thanks

 

[Brazengrrl]

Hey, that was a good and informative answer. The best part is, I understand it and it makes sense!!

 

[playa0069u]

lol ya me too lol