High-Pressure Sodium Grow Lights (HPS) Buying Guide: Everything You Need To Know
When it comes to growing your own plants and flowers, one of the most important pieces of equipment you need is a grow light. High-Pressure Sodium (HPS) lights are one of the best options on the market for providing quality illumination to your plants in both indoor and outdoor settings. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about HPS lights so that you can make an informed purchase decision.
What Are High-Pressure Sodium Lights?
High-pressure sodium lights are a type of electric discharge lamp invented by General Electric in 196These lamps produce light by passing an electric current through a tube filled with xenon gas and sodium vapor at high pressure. The sodium vapor is excited by the electric current, producing a bright yellow-orange light. HPS lights are extremely efficient and are used extensively in commercial and industrial settings.
What Are the Benefits of High-Pressure Sodium Lights?
There are several advantages to using high-pressure sodium lights for your grow operation:
High Efficiency – HPS lights produce more lumens per watt than any other type of lighting technology. This makes them up to twice as efficient as other types of grow lights on the market.
Durability – These lamps have been around since 1964 and have proven to be highly reliable over time. With proper care, you can expect your HPS light to last for many years without needing to be replaced.
Cost – The cost of HPS lights is relatively low compared to other types of grow lights on the market, making them a great choice for those on a budget.
Spectrum – HPS lights produce light in the yellow-orange spectrum, which is ideal for promoting flowering and fruiting in plants. This makes them a great choice for growers who are looking to maximize their yields.
How Much Light Do High-Pressure Sodium Lights Produce?
The amount of light produced by high-pressure sodium lamps depends on several factors including wattage, distance from the lamp, and reflectors used. Generally speaking, you can expect your HPS lamp to produce anywhere from 30-150 lumens per watt.
What Are the Different Types of High-Pressure Sodium Lights?
There are three main types of high-pressure sodium lights: single ended lamps, double ended lamps, and pulse start lamps. Single ended lamps contain only one electrode and are typically used in outdoor settings or larger grow areas. Double ended lamps have two electrodes and are designed for smaller grow areas with higher light intensity needs. Pulse start lamps use a special ballast to create a faster startup time than traditional HPS lights, making them more energy efficient than other types of HPS lights on the market.
How Much Does a High-Pressure Sodium Light Cost?
The cost of an HPS light will vary depending on the type, wattage, and brand of light you choose. Generally speaking, a single ended HPS lamp can cost anywhere between $50-200 while double ended lamps can range from $100-400. Pulse start lamps are usually more expensive and can range from $300-500.
Where Can I Buy High-Pressure Sodium Lights?
High-pressure sodium lights are widely available at both online and brick and mortar stores. Popular online retailers include Amazon, Walmart, Home Depot, Lowes, and many more. You should also be able to find HPS lights at your local hydroponic store or grow shop.
High Pressure Sodium (HPS) lights are an efficient and cost-effective way to provide light to your plants in both indoor and outdoor settings. HPS lights are extremely durable, produce a high amount of lumens for their wattage, and have a relatively low upfront cost. There are three main types of HPS lights – single ended lamps, double ended lamps, and pulse start lamps – with varying costs depending on the type and brand you choose. It’s possible to find HPS lights at both online retailers as well as your local hydroponic store or grow shop. With this guide, you should now have all the information you need to make an informed purchase decision for your growing operation.