Do most folks keep a spare bulb (or three) on hand?
I just changed over to hps this grow. Got a 600W digital set-up from HTG.
Moved a couple outside plants in to finish flowering. Fought off the mites (still am) It was week 3.
12 days later the bulb blew. I planned on getting a back-up after a few weeks, wanting to make sure all was well with the initial set-up before investing any further. Big mistake.
Now this 6 week into pistils plant has been setting upstairs under fluros for 8 days, with the replacement bulb still two days away.
Everyone needs to go ahead and order the extra w/the original order . . . it's cheaper that way (usually) and not everyone lives anywhere near a decent hydro/lamp store.
I bought two extras when I was dealing w/the replacement. Just be sure to read/understand whatever warranty comes with your bulbs.