what is a ballast and do you need one for lighting?
2007-05-02 12:35:59 · 2 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Fish
A ballast is a part of fluorescent and metal halide lighting systems. It takes a lot of energy to get the gasses inside the lamps to "glow", but once the light is "on" less energy is needed. The ballast helps regulate the amount of energy so the light will come on, but not waste energy that's not needed.
Most aquarium lighting hoods have a ballast built in, but if you're using lighting from a home store that's made for several hard-wired light fixtures (like ceiling fixtures that have no "plug" on the end of their wires) you'll probably need to get one. Some aquarium lighting systems where components are sold separately (Ice Cap, Visi-Lux) will need them as well. If you need to get one, make sure the specifications (starting and operating voltage) matches what your lamps/fixture require.
2007-05-02 13:42:28 · answer #1 · answered by copperhead 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I have no Idea what a ballast is but I've had tanks since I was six you don't need one. Unless it's a part to the light.But If you are really not sure check out your local pet shop and ask. But again I don't think you need one.
2007-05-02 19:53:16 · answer #2 · answered by zani 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋