HPS Lighting
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Sale!
Maxibright Varidrive 600w HPS Dimmable Kit
Original price was: £55.00.£48.50Current price is: £48.50. -
Omega Eurowing 600w Black Digi Kit
£45.00 -
Sale!
Gavita Pro 1000w E-Series DE Slim Line
Original price was: £495.00.£445.00Current price is: £445.00. -
Sale!
Lumii 750W DE Kit
Original price was: £220.00.£198.00Current price is: £198.00.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is HPS lightning still popular in the UK despite the LED advances?
High-pressure sodium (HPS) lamps are still used in some horticultural installations because they provide high-intensity light and release more heat than many LED fixtures. Whether HPS is suitable depends on crop requirements, electricity costs, ventilation and the existing installation. LEDs can also be used in year-round growing systems; compare complete fixtures rather than assuming one technology suits every application.
2. What is the difference between single-ended and double-ended HPS lamps?
Double-ended and single-ended HPS lamps use different fittings and compatible fixtures. Their efficiency, output and service life vary by lamp model and ballast; no universal 25–30% improvement applies. Compare the manufacturer’s specifications for the complete lamp-and-ballast system before selecting a fixture.
3. Do I need a special ballast for HPS Lights?
HPS lamps require an appropriate ballast and a compatible fixture. Match the lamp type and rated wattage to the ballast and holder exactly as instructed by the manufacturer. Mismatched equipment can fail or pose an electrical and fire risk; use a qualified electrician where installation work is required.
4. Which plant stage is best for HPS lights?
HPS lamps emit a broad spectrum with a substantial yellow-orange component and are used in some flowering and fruiting systems. Results depend on the crop, fixture efficiency, light intensity, photoperiod and environment. No lamp type guarantees heavier yields; select lighting using crop-specific requirements and manufacturer data.
5. Can I use HPS lights for vegetative growth?
Some growers use HPS during vegetative growth, but suitability depends on the crop, light level and spectrum of the specific lamp. Compare photosynthetic light output, energy use and the plant’s requirements rather than assuming every HPS lamp performs worse or better than every LED fixture.
6. How far should I hang HPS lights from my plant?
There is no universally safe hanging distance for a 600 W HPS lamp. It depends on the reflector, lamp, manufacturer’s instructions, ventilation and the plants being grown. Follow the lamp and reflector maker’s minimum-clearance guidance, and assess light intensity and canopy temperature using suitable equipment. Do not use the back-of-hand test to judge electrical or fire safety.
7. How often should I change my HPS bulbs?
HPS lamp service life and light-output maintenance differ by brand and model. Follow the manufacturer’s rated life, lumen-maintenance information and replacement instructions. Do not assume every lamp lasts 20,000 hours or must be replaced after a fixed 6,000–10,000 hours.
8. How do I know if my HPS bulb is completely used up?
Possible signs of an ageing HPS lamp include noticeable dimming, colour change or repeated cycling. Cycling can also indicate a ballast, fixture or electrical fault. Switch off the equipment, allow it to cool and consult the manufacturer’s troubleshooting instructions or a qualified electrician instead of assuming the bulb is the only cause.
9. Are HPS lights expensive to run in the UK?
HPS electricity costs depend on the complete fixture’s measured power draw, hours of use and your electricity tariff. Calculate an estimate as: power in kW × hours used × price per kWh. For example, a 600 W load running for 12 hours uses approximately 7.2 kWh per day before any additional ballast or ventilation consumption. Check your tariff and equipment ratings rather than relying on a fixed monthly cost.
10. Can I use HPS in a small, enclosed space?
HPS lamps generate substantial heat and must be used in a correctly rated fixture with adequate ventilation and manufacturer-specified clearances. Suitability for a small space cannot be decided from wattage alone. Check the lamp, ballast and reflector instructions and obtain appropriate electrical advice before installation.
11.Can I run HPS Lights at 240V?
Do not assume that every HPS fitting is suitable for a particular UK mains supply. Check the ballast and complete luminaire’s input-voltage rating, wiring requirements and relevant certifications. A competent electrician should assess installations where needed; supply voltage alone does not determine operating temperature.
12. How many hours a day should I light my HPS lights?
Lighting hours depend on the plant species, variety, growth stage and the manufacturer’s cultivation guidance. There is no universal 12-hour flowering or 18-hour vegetative schedule for all crops. Use crop-specific photoperiod recommendations and observe local electrical and fire-safety requirements.
