Do LED grow lights make good plant grow lights?

Full spectrum LED grow lights have become a leading choice for horticultural lighting in 2024. They are increasingly popular for indoor growing due to their flexibility and efficiency, making them a top option for growing plants indoors.

What are the benefits of LED grow lights?

• Energy Efficiency: LED grow lights are highly energy-efficient, using only about 10% of the energy that incandescent bulbs use. While HID lights use 62.5 watts per square foot, LED lights draw only 32 watts per square foot, making them ideal for high-quality indoor gardening.
• Heat Management: LEDs produce minimal heat, which can be beneficial in reducing air conditioning costs. However, in cooler climates, you may need a heater to maintain optimal temperatures. The low heat output also allows lights to be placed closer to plants, perfect for growing plants in tight spaces.
• Full Spectrum Lighting: Many LED grow lights offer full spectrum lighting, providing UV and infrared rays that promote plant growth. They often include switches between red and blue spectrums for vegetation and flowering stages.
• Longevity: LED lights can last up to 10 years, significantly longer than HID lights, which need replacement every one to two years. This long lifespan means LEDs pay for themselves over time, making them a great long-term investment for any hydroponic system or indoor garden.
• Adjustable Light Direction: Some LEDs have an adjustable light direction feature, giving growers more control over light distribution. Using a PAR meter can help ensure your indoor garden receives optimal lighting from different angles. Unlike HID lights, LEDs do not require a ballast.

For optimal results, pair your LED grow lights with a grow light mover to ensure even light distribution from various angles.

What size LED grow light do I need?

The size of the LED grow light needed depends on the area of your indoor garden. A general rule is 32 watts of actual power per square foot of growing space. For instance, a 5' x 5' garden would require at least an 800-watt LED grow light.

Types of LED Light Fixtures

At Hydrobuilder, we offer a variety of LED light fixtures for different indoor gardening needs:

• LED Panels: These are the most common and offer either a full spectrum or the ability to switch between spectrums. They include heatsinks and a driver and often come with a warranty.
• LED Bars: Less expensive than panels, these single rows of diodes come in various spectrums and are typically used as supplemental light sources. Multiple bars may be needed to light a grow room effectively.
• LED Bulbs: Designed to replace CFL bulbs, these fit into standard light sockets. They are excellent for mixing and matching spectrums but may require a reflective hood for best results.

For the best LED grow lights on the market, check out our comprehensive list of top picks!

For more in-depth information, visit our guide on growing with LED Grow Lights on our learning center!