t8 led ? anyone try the phillips instafit led or ge t8 led's ?

[drcelticgreen]

just wondering trying to get opinion / thinking of making the switch to these for veg as they claim to use between 9-22 watts per 4' tube .
a 4 foot t5 6 light fixture for veg at 40-50 watts per light = 200 plus watts easily these would use about half that and would be a great energy savings. Anyone out there have experience with these ? also what are people using to veg ? also opinions on what people think one could use as a minimum watts - lumens to veg a 2 foot x 4 foot area and a 4x4 area . any help - input would be greatly appreciated thanks

 

[Phaeton]

I still have a few of the first generation T8 replacements, I had to remove the ballasts and rewire to direct 110 v.
These new ones are certainly easier to use. I personally veg at a higher intensity than fluorescent bulbs can generate, too much surface area cuts down the intensity per square millimeter to less than I like.

I have looked hard at these several times when browsing the light sections, they would be excellent for clones if I did not already have LED clone lights.
I am not going to double up but if clone lighting was not already done, warm white LED tubes would be competing for first choice.

I use meters rather than advertised lumens or watts. T5s are on the borderline of being enough to veg, there are easier ways but in a pinch 12 bulbs in a 2' X 4' area can be made to work. They have to be so close that heat is a major problem and good fans must be carefully placed to remove heat without stressing the leaves.

An upside down 'v' with a 5" gap at top to vent air will put more light down low without burning the top and will make it easier to direct the heat away.
Aquarium tubes designed for planted freshwater tanks have enhanced red and blue compared to commercial 'white' growlights of any color temperature.

Good luck with this.

 

[drcelticgreen]

thanks for the input very much appreciated anyone else ?