open HPS/MH fixtures safe?

[LaserKittensGoPewPew]

I found a deal on a 400w hps system, but it's open and doesn't have the tempered glass lense. I know that oils from your fingers on the bulb will make them explode which is why I'm hesitant to buy it. What happens if dust and stuff gets up on the bulb? There's no barrier there to keep everything out. If anyone who uses an open style fixture can help me out that would be great. Thank's.

 

[HerbiJesus]

hi there, im using one like that and havn't had any problems (yet). As long as you make sure the bulb is clean and careful of water splash i don't think it will be a problem.

 

[LaserKittensGoPewPew]

hmm alright. Right now I have choice between a 400w hps that's open and a 250w hps that's closed. I would much rather have the extra juice, but I'm more worried about fires.

 

[HerbiJesus]

I suppose it depends on how many plants you want to grow, iv'e got 5 under an open 250w hps and they seem to be getting enough light but im no expert, i guess if your that worried go for the safer option. i think all good lights come with a saftey regulation, or somthing like that. so make sure it has it. but like i said i'm no expert. can anyone else help on this?

 

[Hick]

50 watts of HID or 5,000 lumens, per sq foot.
'kitty'..no worry with the "open" unit. It's only been a few yrs that the enclosed, vented units have become popular and available.
You do need to use some caution, a slight 'overspray' from a misting bottle containing cold water, can cause a hot bulb to burst. But other than that, simply wipe the "cool" bulb off with a clean dry cloth occasionally. If it really needs cleaned, I use rubbing alcohol.

 

[LaserKittensGoPewPew]

Sounds good, because I would much rather have the 400w shining down on my plants. I've never used an HID hood so how hot do these things get up to? My main concern is a fire. I'm definitely going to have a big and small fire extinguisher on hand just in case, but I just want to take the proper precautions to setting the space up so that I don't have to worry about it as much. I'm also not completely sure of the quality of this system...I mean it's a 400w with ballast, bulb, and hood for $109...

 

[bombbudpuffa]

I found a deal on a 400w hps system, but it's open and doesn't have the tempered glass lense. I know that oils from your fingers on the bulb will make them explode which is why I'm hesitant to buy it. What happens if dust and stuff gets up on the bulb? There's no barrier there to keep everything out. If anyone who uses an open style fixture can help me out that would be great. Thank's.

I don't think fingerprints or dirt on the bulb will make it explode, i've seen some dirty bulbs before...maybe a 1000w. What fingerprints and dirt on the bulb DOES do is cut down the light output. A fingerprint can cut the light by %10. Open lights are fine, thats how all of mine are. Good luck!

 

[LaserKittensGoPewPew]

thank's guys. I'm definitely going to go with the 400w then.