Is 400W hps overkill for 5 Sq Foot room

Hi all,

Have a quick question, I just bought a 400w hps with extractor fan and cooltube.
I've been reading around here and 50w per sq foot is the recommended I guess.

Am I overdoing it?, so far the temps are fine but if I'm just wasting electricity for little or no gain I might just bring the bulb and ballast back to the store and stick in a 250 watt.

If there is any advantages to me keeping the 400w could someone let me know as right now I'm feeling like I'm probably wasting it on the space i have it in

Nothing wrong with a little overkill on the light, lst and scrog them and I'm sure you will be more then pleased with the results.

If ya ask me, that's ideal. I think you'll be quite happy with the results. Also,...50 watts is the minimum, not the max. it's tough to have too much light, and you are well within the acceptable range.

Ive used a 400w in about that space with good results, you are a lot better of with 400w instead of 250w anyway. Stick with it! You'll be glad you did when harvest time comes! Peace

I would stick to the 400 watt hps. The more lumens the better. You will get a better yield with bigger buds if you go with the 400 over the 250. The difference in your electic bill wont be that much so i think getting a good yield would be worth it.

Thanks for the quick replys guys, As a first time grower I've found out so much lurking through the forums.

If it means more yield then I'm happy to stick with it I guess and I'm planning to do a scrog grow in the space so I guess more watt's = more light penetration.
One quick question about temps, I'm currently 95f at the plant level, I know that's a bit on the high side but probably acceptable right?

The outside room is usually about 75-80 so I'm not sure how much lower I can get it but the though of buying a beefier fan has also crossed my mind.

If you are taking the temp of your grow room you need to take it above the light or somewhere around light level that isnt directly IN the light. When the light is shining on your temp probe you are seeing radiant heat temps from the bulb.

I have a 400 watter in a similar situation. I get great yields.

phishtank said:

If you are taking the temp of your grow room you need to take it above the light or somewhere around light level that isnt directly IN the light. When the light is shining on your temp probe you are seeing radiant heat temps from the bulb.

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I took the temp of 95 at plant level with the thermometer shaded and out of the direct light, I don't know the exact terminology but similar effect to leaving one in the sunlight in that it will be higher.
I understand that the plants can withstand the high temperatures in this regard.

So anyway I'm at 85F at mid level in the room just above the lights and 95 at plant level with the thermometer in the shade...Should I be worried?