What are LED grow lights? What are the benefits of LED grow lights? How many watts of LED power do I need compared to HID lighting? How many watts do I need per square foot of grow space? What is DLI, how can be it converted to PPFD from each other? What is PPF? What is IP rating? Is efficacy the higher, the better? What is the difference between passive cooling and active cooling? What does full spectrum light mean? Spectrum and light intensity, which is more important? 

In this article, we will walk you through some know-and-hows about led grow light. Let us dive in!

What are LED grow lights?

LED grow lights are a significant advancement in indoor gardening technology, offering numerous benefits over traditional lighting options such as high-pressure sodium and metal halide..

What are the benefits of LED grow lights?

Extended Lifespan: Designed to last between 50,000 to 100,000 hours, providing reliable performance for 5 to 10 years.
Energy Efficiency: Utilizes 30-50% less energy than conventional systems, resulting in significant cost savings.
Reduced Heat Emission: Lowers HVAC demands, creating a more stable growing environment.
Streamlined Installation: Simple setup with no ballasts and infrequent bulb replacements.
Advanced Control Options: Many units offer dimming, timing, and spectral adjustments for better management.
Compact Design: Low-profile design fits well in tiered systems, optimizing available space.
Safe Operation: Free from hazardous substances like mercury.

How many watts of LED power do I need compared to HID lighting? 

LED grow lights generally require 30-50% less wattage compared to HID systems. Be mindful of actual wall wattage versus advertised figures.

How many watts do I need per square foot of grow space?

Aim for 30-40 watts per square foot, adhering to manufacturer specifications as requirements can vary.
You shouldn’t actually use wattage to determine how powerful of an LED grow light you need. Instead there are other factors that are more important, such as PPFD and footprint uniformity.

What is PPFD and why do I need to know about it?

Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density (PPFD) measures light intensity (400-700nm) reaching plants. Higher PPFD values indicate sufficient light for healthy growth, influenced by factors like beam angle and fixture height..

What is DLI, how can be it converted to PPFD from each other?

DLI measures the cumulative light exposure plants receive and is a critical factor in determining growth and flowering.
How To Calculate PPFD From DLI :
Unit of DLI – mol/m²/d
Unit of PPFD – umol/m²/sec
Calculation from DLI to PPFD
If DLI 12 By Considering 16 hours photoperiod,
12 moles / 16 hr photoperiod / 60 minutes / 60 seconds = 0.000208 moles
(This gives us the amount of moles delivered per second per square meter) 0.000208 moles x 1,000,000 = 208 µmols per second per meter squared (µmol/s/m²) Then PPFD 208

What is PPF?

Photosynthetic Photon Flux (PPF) measures the total light emitted by a light source per second within the photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) range, expressed in micromoles per second (μmol/s). PPF is essential for selecting appropriate lighting for plant growth, as it indicates the light output available for photosynthesis, thereby supporting optimal plant development..

What is BTU?

BTU, or British Thermal Unit, measures energy by representing the heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.
In LED grow lights, BTU quantifies heat generated by the light fixture. To calculate BTU, consider the fixture’s power consumption and its efficiency. LED grow lights typically offer greater energy efficiency than traditional incandescent or fluorescent lights, resulting in lower heat generation for the same light output.
To estimate BTU from an LED grow light:
Determine the power consumption in watts (W).
Convert watts to BTU per hour using the factor: 1 watt = 3.412 BTU/hr.
Multiply the wattage by the conversion factor.

For example, a 1000 watt LED grow light generates:

• 1000 watts × 3.412 BTU/hr = 3412 BTU/hr

Therefore, it produces approximately 3412 BTUs of heat per hour. Please note that this is an estimate; actual output may vary based on fixture design and environmental conditions..

What is IP rating?

An IP rating, or Ingress Protection rating, indicates a device’s protection against dust and water. It is expressed as “IP” followed by two numbers: the first number rates protection against solids like dust, and the second assesses protection against liquids like water.
For example, an IP65 rating allows for submersion in water. However, for LED grow lights, an IP54 rating is adequate, as these devices are only exposed to moisture, making it a more cost-effective choice.

What’s the differences between LED, HPS, MH?? 

LED, HPS, and MH are distinct types of lighting used in horticulture.
LED lights are energy-efficient and provide a full spectrum of illumination, making them suitable for all growth stages. While the initial investment is higher, their long lifespan and minimal maintenance make them a sound choice for the long term.
HPS (High-Pressure Sodium) lights emit yellow-orange light, which is effective for flowering, while MH (Metal Halide) lights produce blue-white light ideal for vegetative growth. These two types are often used together. Although they have lower upfront costs, they require annual replacement and are less environmentally friendly than LEDs.

Is efficacy the higher, the better??

A grow light with higher efficacy is generally advantageous, leading to lower electricity costs and potentially improved plant growth. However, it is important to also consider factors such as light spectrum and coverage for optimal development..

What is the difference between passive cooling and active cooling??

Passive cooling relies on natural methods like heat sinks and air vents, while active cooling employs mechanical systems such as fans or liquid cooling. Passive cooling is quieter, though active cooling typically requires more energy and maintenance.

What does full spectrum light mean?

“Full spectrum” lighting emits a broad range of wavelengths similar to natural sunlight, covering colors from blue to red and beyond. This type of lighting is beneficial for plant health and photosynthesis.

Spectrum and light intensity, which is more important?

Both spectrum and light intensity are crucial for plant growth. The spectrum affects processes like photosynthesis and flowering, while light intensity determines energy availability. Balancing both elements is essential for optimal plant development.