electronic ballast vs magnetic ballast

how do you know if you have a electronic ballast vs a magnetic ballast?

my ballast makes this ticking kind of sound is this normal? THANKS

MY ballast ARE HUGE in a HUGE metal chassis but the chassis is not labeled =[.

 

Most likely, you have a magnetic. They are larger and much heavier.

Are there any brand names or model numbers marked on the case? Where did you buy it?

 

I just switched from a magnetic to an electronic and I can tell you that the magnetic one was a GIANT/BEAST compared to the new electronic one.

Also, my magnetic ballast made a very distinct hummm.

 

yupp, im listening to mine hummmm right now lol

 

;D Not me....hubby just switched them today! Love it! Tank is in the living room, so now I don't have to keep turning up the volume on the tv.

 

okay i guess its magnetic then =[ cuz i also hear the humming sound. pros and cons of magnetic and electronic?

 

The reason I switched is because I wanted to go with Iwaski bulbs and they only work with an electronic ballast.

They are smaller and the ballast itself puts out less heat. And although it is not a significant amount, they are reputed to be more efficient with electricity usage. Maybe Sparky will chime in and give his professional opinion.

 

Magnetic = heavy, more heat, more energy consumption, shorter bulb life.

If you can afford an electronic version, it really is a better choice. Your bulbs last longer and take less electricity to run them.

 

oh hmmm i wnt to confirm that magnetic ballast makes a humming noise? and the electronic ballast does not make a humming noise?

or do they both make a humming noise?

 

The pros of magnetic ballasts are that they are a little less expensive and drive the bulbs better, producing more light and PAR than electronic ones. As mentioned, the pros of electronic ballasts are that they are more efficient and allow greater bulb life and are cooler. Many people prefer magnetic ballasts over electronic ones as they drive the bulb harder getting more bang for you buck. But as electric bills are adding up, the move to electronic ballasts seems to be in full force.