Underdriven Radiums or another 250w Option?

Stlouphil · 05/09/2014, 09:59 AM

Just got a used MH setup with an Coralvue electronic ballast need to change change out the bulbs. I would like to run Radiums, but do not currently have the HQI ballasts although I'm looking to pick up a couple used.

The question is the bulbs need to be changed. Is it better to go ahead and get a couple Radiums and under drive them until I get the correct ballasts or go with a non-radium bulb until I get the proper ballasts?

What are some alternative to Radiums for an electronic ballast?

Peter Eichler · 05/09/2014, 11:06 AM

I believe people used to run Radiums with these ballasts without issue. They will most likely just be a smidge bluer with small drop in par. I say go for it, maybe you'll like the results and won't need to change the ballast.

Stlouphil · 05/09/2014, 02:52 PM

Thanks. I went ahead and ordered 1 radium from Premium Aquatics. I ll check the color with the electronic ballast. If I like it I'll order another. If not, I'm sure there is market here on RC for a 2 week old radium. ; )

05/09/2014, 09:59 AM	#1
Stlouphil Registered Member Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Wildwood, MO Posts: 393	Underdriven Radiums or another 250w Option? Just got a used MH setup with an Coralvue electronic ballast need to change change out the bulbs. I would like to run Radiums, but do not currently have the HQI ballasts although I'm looking to pick up a couple used. The question is the bulbs need to be changed. Is it better to go ahead and get a couple Radiums and under drive them until I get the correct ballasts or go with a non-radium bulb until I get the proper ballasts? What are some alternative to Radiums for an electronic ballast?

05/09/2014, 11:06 AM	#2
Peter Eichler Registered Member Join Date: Feb 2004 Location: Milwaukee Posts: 6,081	I believe people used to run Radiums with these ballasts without issue. They will most likely just be a smidge bluer with small drop in par. I say go for it, maybe you'll like the results and won't need to change the ballast.

05/09/2014, 02:52 PM	#3
Stlouphil Registered Member Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Wildwood, MO Posts: 393	Thanks. I went ahead and ordered 1 radium from Premium Aquatics. I ll check the color with the electronic ballast. If I like it I'll order another. If not, I'm sure there is market here on RC for a 2 week old radium. ; )