Ballasts
The magic of H.I.D. lighting relies on the smooth delivery of electrical current from ballasts. Behind the curtain, ballasts are simply power transformers that feed lights a clean, high-voltage signal to initiate arcing and manage light performance.

Ballasts

Ballasts

Grow light ballasts power high-intensity grow bulbs and lamps by regulating the voltage to a high-intensity discharge (HID) light or compact fluorescent light. Some ballasts power specific bulb types while others are "switchable," capable of powering both HPS and MH bulbs. There are three types of ballasts: electronic, digital, and magnetic. Ballasts typically are available in various wattages from 315w to 1000w.

Digital ballasts

Digital ballasts are the latest technology. They use microprocessors to monitor and regulate the voltage and are often dimmable.

Double Ended ballasts

Double-Ended ballasts are made specifically to power double-ended fixtures safely.

Magnetic ballasts

Magnetic ballasts, an older technology, use an electromagnetic system for controlling voltage. They typically are cheaper than the other ballast technologies.

T5 Fluorescent ballasts

Fluorescent ballasts are made specifically to power fluorescent lights, such as the longer T5 bulbs frequently used for the propagation of many plants in a small space.

Parts, Accessories

On these pages you’ll also find related items such as capacitors, ignitors, power cords, 240V receptacles, and adapters.