How much benefit can one gain from buying a brand new bulb for your hps light?

[Guitarofozz]

I have a 1000w with a bulb of questionable history. I figured just replacing the bulb is going to help even for the mere fact that most people recommend replacing bulbs after each cycle. Now add to that the this bulb has probably seen it's fair share of Grows, I think the benefits was worth the little money invested.

 

[MrBungle]

Yup.

 

[troutman]

I tend to get a new bulb after 2 or 3 grows.

I'll keep the older bulb as a spare just in case the new one fails.

 

[Gry]

Old bulbs consume more power and produce less.
I can' give you percentages, but I see no point using
old bulbs.

 

[hungrowboy]

Who managed to get the most out of 400w? And how did he do it?