coreywebster
Well-Known Member
From what I read it does hurt the spectrum. Take a look at this link showing the spectrum of a MH and HPS bulb when dimming. https://eyehortilux.com/grower-education/how-light-affects-plants/effects-of-dimming-on-spectrum/ Now this is just one source and could be inaccurate I suppose but have a read if you are interested.

What happens when you dim your grow lights?
What happens when you dim your grow lights? These days, there are many brands and models of HID (HPS and CDM / CMH) grow lights that have the facility to be dimmed. It tends to be only the cheap ones (with magnetic ballasts) that do not. Nearly all digital ballasts have a control for dimming...

While I was trying to find some evidence to back up what I was saying earlier ( which may be wrong)
I came across a lot of old sites, all forums with people saying it doesn't change spectrum or diminish lifespan but I can across a few sites , all major respected bulb manufacturers who all show spectral difference and all say it shortens life span and efficiency .