Metal Halide Fixture Question

[ThePurple12]

Do fixtures need specific bulb wattages, or does it depend on the ballast? For example, if I'm using a 250w ballast, can I run a 250w bulb in a fixture that was previously running a 150w bulb with a 150w ballast?

 

[r20crazy]

I would not.. the wiring inside the fixture may not be the correct size that is required for larger bulbs/wattage and can cause a fire. if its a single end bulb some were made for multiple wattage bulbs (you can check online if you know the brand but think that was 250 and 400w). IIRC dual end fixtures the 150w and 250w bulbs are different sizes and wont fit in same sockets to prevent this (but its been a while, I could be wrong)

 

[ThePurple12]

Ah. Looks like I wouldn't be able to do it anyway. The bulb can't even fit in the fixture.

 

[jda]

The wiring is all fine. The socket is different between 250w and 150w, assume double ended stuff.

You can change out the socket and reuse the fixture. The sockets used to be about $10, or so... no idea anymore.