Item Code: 30250

* Finally, a retrofit kit with high quality, functional parts that you need!
* Tired of seeing those cheap kits everyone else sells? We were too, so we finally put together a MH Retrofit kit with parts and options we would actually want as aquarists. Don't throw away your hard earned $$ on cheap parts, only to have to replace them later.
* Retrofit kits includes: Universal M58 magnetic ballast, our Parabolic Reflector with a standard mogul base/mounting bracket riveted to it and grounded power cord.
* 250W of light for your tank!
* Brand new items come in this kit, no flimsy parts!
* The reflector is our top selling Parabolic Polished Aluminum Mirror Reflector.
* Compare the others, and then buy the BEST!
* Probe Start ballast.
* Wiring instructions are on the ballast.
* Note: this kit will require wiring done by a qualified electrician. We suggest purchasing 18 gauge wire to aid in installation.
* Optional: We offer High Temperature wire nuts as an option, so you know you are getting the correct ones safe for installation. High temperature wire nut connectors are rated to 302 degrees Fahrenheit. Made specifically for high wattage HID applications.
* Caution: This retrofit/ballast kit must be housed in an area free of moisture, behind glass. Make sure the bulb(s) and socket(s) are sealed off from any moisture, humidity or evaporation when mounted over your aquarium. Mount ballast(s) away from moisture, humidity or evaporation. Failure to do so will void any and all warranty, and could be a potential hazard.
* Optional: You can now include 33 feet of 18 Gauge stranded copper wire with your order. This will allow you to extend the wires off your ballast, and make installation easier. This would allow you to place the ballast outside of your canopy, in a remote location. You will also get 4 additional regular wire nuts with this option.
We've had a few questions about these ballasts looking "used". These ballasts are industrial grade, and thus, they are not shiny and new looking. The ballasts we sell are fresh from the factory and 100% brand new. They're not a best looking item we sell, but they are reliable HID workhorses!
Ballast Description
* Manufacturer: Universal/Magnetek
* Model # M250ML5AC3M718C / Description: 1-250W MH M58 Multi-5 60Hz
* Magnetic HID core and coil.
* INCLUDES: M58/H37 ballast, capacitor and bracket kit welded to the base, for easy mounting. Others sell you just the raw ballast, don't be fooled! Ours come with the bracket kit already installed! Screws for mounting are not included.
Ballast Specifications
Ballast made for lamp type: 250W Metal Halide
ANSI Designation: M58 or H37
Input Voltage: 120
Circuit Type: CWA
Watts Input: 280
Max Input Current: 2.60
Nom Open Circuit Voltage: 290
Fuse Rating: 8
Reflector Specifications
* Parabolic Polished Aluminum Mirror Reflector.
* Dimensions: 16" x 13" x 5" (L x W x H)
FAQ:
Q. Why does this ballast have 2 ANSI designations?
A. This ballast will operate both 250W metal halide and 250W mercury vapor lamps, hence the M58 and H37 designation.
Q. What is the difference between these new Magnetic Ballast Systems and the Electronic Ballast Systems?
A. Wiring the electronic ballast is MUCH simpler than the magnetic ballast. Also, the electronic ballasts are energy saving - up to 25% over magnetic ballasts, extended bulb life up to 25%, provide consistent lamp color, uniform lumen output, reduced Lamp flicker, operate at cooler temperatures and are silent in operation (magnetic ballasts tend to "hum" while running.
Q. Why doesn't a Radium 20,000K bulb appear in the MH bulb options list for this item?
A. Only "probe start" style bulbs are on the list. The bulbs listed as an option are the correct ones which will operate fine on this M58 ballast. A 250W Radium 20,000K is made for a Reactor type ballast (available in Europe), which are generally not available here. So, we suggest an ANSI M138 "pulse start" ballast (available in the U.S.) because they have an ignitor which assists in starting the lamp, or a 250W HQI ballast, ANSI M80.
Q. Can I run a probe start style MH lamp (bulb) on a pulse start MH ballast and vice-versa?
A. The manufacturers of the ballasts and lamps do not recommend this. What adverse effects will it have? Ballasts/lamps are designed to be run as a circuit within certain tolerances (line input, starting voltage, current, etc.). Electrical components should be operated as specified. By not following these guidelines, you may increase the chance of risk, damage to your equipment, premature failure of lamps and other potential hazards. Lamp manufacturers do not guarantee lamp performance or reliability if incorrect ballast is used with a lamp.
Q. What is the difference between a "probe start" and "pulse start" ballast?
A. Without getting technical, a "pulse start" ballast has an ignitor which helps start the lamp, while the "probe start" does not have an ignitor. Most ballasts sold in MH fixtures here in the U.S. are "probe start" (ANSI: M57, M58 or M59).
Note: For "3 Day Select", "2nd Day" or "Next Day Air" on this OVERWEIGHT item, you will be charged additional shipping costs. This will be added to your order after it is placed, and will be in addition to the normal shipping charge you will see on the checkout page. Please call us if you have any questions.
Hellolights highly recommends the use of a ground fault circut interrupter with all of the lighting equipment we offer. With the correct installation and proper precautions taken you can avoid electrical shock or electrocutions.