Lighting change

[Bowhunter4250]

I currently am running 3 250w 20k mh for 9 hrs. Im switching to 14k what would be the best photo period to start with and ramp back up so i dont shock everything ? 7 hrs ? Shorter ? Gradually increase each week ?

Thanks

 

[wld1783]

That would depend on the Bulb and ballast.

Its always best to check the intensity before and after with a PAR Meter.

Its always safe to change to a lower intensity and work your way up.

The photoperiod corals use for photosynthesis is much shorter than 7 hours. This is why I prefer LEDs as they can start as low as 1-10% then ramp up to full to simulate natural lighting conditions.

A couple of Home Depot bug screens will block the light for acclimation then you can remove one every week or couple of days till your 100%

Bill

 

[ToddR]

I have always used window screens --- 3 layers, with removing a layer every 5-7 days.

A very old picture showing that -- 33 cube