The rise in indoor gardening has led to an important debate among growers—should you use LED or HPS lights to mimic sunlight? Each has its distinct advantages and drawbacks, which is why we’ve put together this guide that’ll compare the two lighting systems based on key factors relevant to indoor growing. That way, you can decide if LED or HPS lights are best for you.
Energy Efficiency
When it comes to energy consumption, LEDs generally have the upper hand. They are designed to use less electricity while providing the same level of brightness as HPS lights. This reduces your electric bill and aligns well with sustainable practices. Indoor growers looking to cut down on energy costs may find LEDs a more attractive option, as their efficient design translates to lower energy consumption without sacrificing optimal light output.
Light Spectrum
The spectrum of light a bulb emits can impact plant growth. LEDs offer a full spectrum that’s customizable, which means you can adjust the light to optimize plant growth at different stages, from germination to flowering.
On the other hand, HPS lights are known for their high-intensity output, primarily in the red and yellow spectrums, making them excellent for the flowering phase. Still, for those looking to have more control over their plants’ light exposure, LEDs provide a greater degree of customization.
Heat Emission
Heat management is crucial in indoor gardening, and once again, LEDs outperform HPS lights. LEDs emit significantly less heat, reducing the need for additional cooling systems.
Conversely, the high heat emission from HPS lights can affect indoor climates, potentially damaging plants. If maintaining a stable indoor climate is a concern, opting for LED lights can lower the risk of heat-related issues, making LEDs a safer choice for plant health.
Long-Term Savings
It should come as no surprise that the initial cost of a set of bulbs can be a deciding factor for many indoor growers. In this category, HPS lights and LEDs are about the same. There’s not a very large fluctuation in cost between the two.
However, something worth noting is that LEDs tend to offer better long-term savings than HPS lights in terms of durability and operational costs. This means that even though the initial investment is similar, LEDs often outlast HPS lights, reducing the frequency of replacements and maintenance costs over time. For those wanting to save more money over time, LEDs are the better option.
Which Should You Get?
While the final decision is ultimately up to you, now that you’ve seen LED and HPS lights go head-to-head, it’s fairly evident that LED lights are the best for indoor growing. If you’re ready to upgrade your current lighting system for your interior garden, we suggest our grow lights for indoor plants. These LED bulbs won’t disappoint, and you’ll quickly see the results of this upgrade before your very eyes.