ballast and bulb size

[treesprite]

What happens if a ballast is used for either lower watt bulbs or higher watt bulbs? I don't have any plan for either of those situations, just been wondering for a long time.

[Origami]

Ballasts are matched for a starting and operating voltage (for MH lamps at least). Running too high can shorten the life of the bulb, while running too low may not keep the bulb lit. There can also be problems with starting the lamp in the first place.

 

I suspect that similar problems exist with fluorescent lamps as well.

[reefmontalvo]

Best to follow the instructions for maximum efficiency.

[Coral Hind]

I agree with what's already been said and will add two more cautions on lighting.

 

Dont use MH probe start bulbs on a pulse start magnetic ballast, the bulbs can explode. The ballast can also catch fire as the two ignitors tend to fight against each other.

 

Not following the manufacturer's specification voids the UL listing. Voiding the UL listing is against the electrical code and would also void an insurance claim if the ballast catches fire and burns your house down.

 

The best bet is to follow the specs that engineers have already set up. If the ballast could fire more types of bulbs I am sure the manufacturer would have stated that in the specs so they could sell more ballasts.

[treesprite]

No worries, I have no plan on doing it ever but was really curious about it. Thanks for the information!