Can I change T5NO for T5HO bulbs?

[r2d2]

Hi, I have a fixture with 2 T5 NO bulbs, 28W each. Can I change them for T5HO bulbs, 54W each?
Should I have a ballast problem?
Greetings

 

[panmanmatt]

The HO bulbs will not work on the NO ballast. The NO ballast is only putting out 28W which isn't enough to fire a 54W bulb.

 

[Limpits Reef]

The HO bulbs will not work on the NO ballast. The NO ballast is only putting out 28W which isn't enough to fire a 54W bulb.

+1

 

[r2d2]

Thanks, just wanted to be sure.

 

[kgross]

Actually most of the time the 28 watt ballast will fire the 54 watt bulbs, but you will only get 28 watts, not the 54 watts. You will need to upgrade the ballast to properly drive the 54 watt HO bulbs.

Kim

 

[r2d2]

But I think if I have to buy a new HO ballast and HO bulbs... its better to buy a New fixture, right?

 

[chipmunkofdoom2]

Well, yes and no. If you wanted to just get the ballast, you could go with a higher quality ballast that may be more efficient and make the bulbs last longer. Plus if you get a retrofit kit or something of the like, you won't pay as much as you would for a full fixture.