Lower Watt MH

[demosthenes]

I recently read in another post something about being able to place a lower-watt MH bulb in a higher-watt MH fixture. Such as placing a 175W bulb in a 400W fixture. I was just wondering if this was true, and whether there were any detrimental effects to this practice. If this is an actual possibility, then that would be great for my tank, since it is currently way OVERLIT. So, if you have any knowledge concerning the subject, please help me out here.

 

[j21kickster]

its not the fixture, its the ballasts that is the issue-

 

[demosthenes]

Well, I'm a little unsure as to what difference it makes? Then can I put a 175W on a 400W ballast?

 

[j21kickster]

would you really spend that kind of money just to run a lower wattage light?

 

[slothy]

what is your lighting now , and what are you planning/currently keeping in the tank ?

 

[melbournefl]

No you cannot put a 175watt bulb in a fixture with a 400 watt ballast. The *socket* (mogul) is the same but tbe ballast will blow the 175.
Just my .02,
Paul

 

[jim672]

Demo.,
I agree with Paul. The ballast MUST match the wattage of the bulb.
Jim

 

[demosthenes]

I talked to a friend, and he said that it would work if I bought a ballast to match the bulb, so could I do that? Just purchase a 175W ballast and hook it up? TIA

 

[melbournefl]

Yes that would work just fine. I assume this is because you want to utilize a pendent or fixture you already have?
Later,
Paul