LED vs HPS vs CFL - What Lights should I use when Growing?

It's a common question, and one that often takes some thought -- what kinds of grow lights are best for a hydroponics grow box or other project?

It's something that has to be answered on a case-by-case basis. You can't just say that a certain kind of lights are best for every scenario. But knowing about some of the best and most common types of lighting, as well as more about the hydro grow light industry, will give any beginner a much better idea of their options, and how to develop a hydroponic garden the right way.

LED, HPS, CFL -- Looking at Plant Needs

In a very basic sense, when you're looking for hydroponic lighting, you need the right intensity of LUMENS and the right light SPECTRUM. Any of these three types of lighting can provide this, depending on design. There's also a difference in the way that growers use these lights. So the first step is to look at the intensity and light spectrum that any given light option provides.

The Question of Heat

Where you really get into choosing different types of lighting, choosing between LED or HPS or CFL, is often when you're looking at your temperature needs for a grow space.

We've heard many cases where growers are trying to grow in a closet or other area that's not usually air-conditioned. It's hard for them to keep the area cool. Many of them choose LED lights, or experts recommend that they use LED lights, because these don't throw out heat the way that other kinds of lights do.

With that in mind, we've also seen situations where growers want more heat. They may not have enough heat in their grow area and they want plants to have a high enough temperature to thrive. So they actually use CFLs or other types of traditional lighting as a way to get that heat.

In addition, you have to look at how you hang hydroponic lighting. It's important to distribute light well and prevent excessively close lighting to prevent plant burning - experts also often recommend hanging lights a certain height higher above the plant, such as 12 to 15 inches, to avoid problems with light blending, so that plants really get the full spectrum of light that they need.

Energy-Efficient Lighting

There's also the question of cost, and that can really affect your choice in whether to go with LED or other kinds of lights.

LEDs are most energy-efficient -- because they throw the least heat, they draw the least power. They also last longer than any other types of bulbs. They're going to be more expensive up front, so that also factors into grower decisions.

For more on lighting and everything else for hydroponics projects, check out your full range of options from manufacturers and retailers who can help you to grow better every day.