T5 and metal halide user

[alan.reef]

Hello all R2R reefer.
Im trying to find out, when do I need to replace my T5 ballast and metal halide. as I dont want to over drive the bulb.
Please share your experience.

Thanks

 

[Reefing Madness]

Just the ballasts? Or the lamps in either one?
Ballasts you change out when they go bad.
T5 Lamps every 9 months
Metal Halides every 12 months

 

[alan.reef]

Thanks for replying.
just the ballast I was looking for answer.how do we know the ballast is bad? flickering bulb!!

Just the ballasts? Or the lamps in either one?
Ballasts you change out when they go bad.
T5 Lamps every 9 months
Metal Halides every 12 months

 

[Adam Baggett]

Why would you change the ballasts? As long as you are getting good light and change the bulbs regularly then it should be fine.

 

[alan.reef]

Just thought if the bulb need replacement so do the ballast!

Why would you change the ballasts? As long as you are getting good light and change the bulbs regularly then it should be fine.

 

[FL_Reefer]

Your ballasts are good till the go out in most cases. Also check the fuse in them if they go out (metal halide) before replacing them, mine blow out every so often. Just change the bulbs and you will be good to.

 

[Reefing Madness]

Thanks for replying.
just the ballast I was looking for answer.how do we know the ballast is bad? flickering bulb!!

I'd change out the flickering lamp with a new one before changing the ballast. But yea, thats usually what happens.