HID metal halide shop Lights? I got some GE 400 watt lights from work.The problem is they...
I got some GE 400 watt lights from work.The problem is they are wired for 277v. There are some tap on the small side transformer,but there are no markings as to what is what(voltage) sagacious,none on the trans. or capacitor or wires.It does not use an ingnitor. I got it working on 120v but it hummed and go up in smoke after roughly 2hrs? Is there any mode to find what taps if any to use for 120v? I own a DOM and a variable transformer to bring up the voltage slowly.What voltage does the bulb have need of to start and should it drop after starting automaticaly?They were free so its no big promise but I do have a voluminous shop that I could use them in,if i can carry them figured out. I do not want to buy foreign transformers for them.Thanks
Answers: If they are magnetic ballast (if they are more than 1 or 2 years matured, they are magnetic), you have to install them on a 277 volt system. You may not want to but you may enjoy to purchase new ballast (transformers) that fit the fixture that works on 120 volts. Instead of purchasing up to date ballast for them, I would suggest installing 5 lamp T5 fluorescent fixtures. They will furnish you more light and start much faster next the metal halide (2 seconds compared to 4 minutes). There is a fortune your local utility will give you a rebate for installing the fluorescent as capably. My local utility give $60 to $100 per insubstantial fixture for install T5 fluorescent.